Animal-assisted Therapy: Evaluation and Implementation of a Complementary Therapy to Improve the Psychological and Physiological Health of Critically Ill Patients.

Authors

Mary DeCourcey
Anne C. Russell, Cedarville UniversityFollow
Kathy J Keister

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2010

Journal Title

Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing (DCCN)

ISSN

1538-8646

Volume

29

Issue

5

First Page

211

Last Page

214

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1097/DCC.0b013e3181e6c71a

PubMed ID

20703127

Abstract

Animal-assisted therapy has gained widespread support in a variety of health care settings, including critical care units. This article seeks to review some of the current animal-assisted therapy, define a structured program, and evaluate the potential ability of the therapy to enhance the progress and health of our patients.

Keywords

Animal Assisted Therapy, Animals, Bonding, Human-Pet, Critical Illness, Humans

Recommended Citation

DeCourcey, Mary; Russell, Anne C.; and Keister, Kathy J, "Animal-assisted Therapy: Evaluation and Implementation of a Complementary Therapy to Improve the Psychological and Physiological Health of Critically Ill Patients." (2010). Nursing Faculty Publications. 79.
https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/nursing_publications/79