Effects of Music Therapy on Reducing Delirium in Mechanically Ventilated Adults in Intensive Care Unit

Background: Delirium is a common acute confusion state in patients in intensive care units (ICUs). It has been linked to poor clinical prognoses (e.g., prolonged ICU stay) in critical patients. Furthermore, it might connect with long-term cognitive dysfunction. Mostly, pharmacological treatments have been frequently prescribed for preventing ICU delirium; however, their side effects might subsequently increase the risks of ICU delirium. Therefore, developing an effective non-pharmacological intervention of preventing delirium among critically mechanical ventilated patients is of clinical relevance. Purposes: To examine the effects of music intervention on reducing delirium in mechanically ventilated critical patients, to determine its beneficial effects on delirium-related outcomes, including sedation time, the duration of mechanical ventilation, and the length of ICU stay, and to compare the change of heart rate variability between groups.