Veterans Enhanced Recovery Using Integrative Treatments Around Surgery

An Effectiveness-Implementation Hybrid Study on the Use of Integrative Treatments for Perioperative Symptom Management.

The study aims to assess the implementation and effectiveness of Integrative Treatments - Music Medicine, Aromatherapy, and Battlefield Acupuncture - in the management of perioperative pain and anxiety, and in the reduction of related pharmacologic treatments.

There is an urgent need for effective, safe, and low-cost nonpharmacologic treatments for postoperative pain. This study aims to:

1. assess the implementation of Music Medicine, Aromatherapy, and Battlefield Acupuncture among patients presenting for procedures at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; and,
2. compare the effectiveness of these treatments, alone and in combination, versus standard clinical practice not involving any of these treatments.

Patients from the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Durham VAMC) scheduled to undergo procedures will be eligible to participate in this study. A sample of 400 veterans will be studied. We will offer treatments versus no treatment on alternate months. Recruitment will end when 200 patients have received at least one of these treatments, and 200 patients have received no treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Veterans Scheduled to undergo procedures at the Durham VA

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hearing Loss
• Procedures on the Ear
• Risk of Bleeding
• Anosmia