The effect of environmental music therapy on nursing staff on an inpatient hospice unit: A pilot study

This pilot study explored the experiences of hospice nursing staff exposed to staff-preferred live environmental music therapy on an inpatient hospice unit. Using a qualitative, exploratory design, staff reflections were gathered following a series of live environmental music sessions provided within routine clinical care. Findings indicate that live, familiar music contributed to a calmer and more supportive emotional atmosphere, offering staff moments of respite, grounding and interpersonal connection amid the demands of end-of-life work. Participants described enhanced self-awareness, reduced stress and improved focus, alongside a greater sense of collegiality and shared presence. Participant engagement in music selection fostered ownership, familiarity and positive affect, while the live and responsive nature of the music distinguished it from recorded alternatives, deepening engagement and relational attunement. Staff perceived that their improved mood and attentiveness enhanced patient interactions, with observed positive responses from patients and families. The live music intervention was viewed as feasible and non-disruptive. While limited by its small scale and contextual specificity, this study offers preliminary evidence that staff-preferred live environmental music therapy may enhance emotional resilience and the relational climate of hospice care. Further mixed-methods research is warranted to examine comparative effects, sustainability and collaborative models of implementation within palliative settings.