Animal-assisted therapy: evaluation and implementation of a complementary therapy to improve the psychological and physiological health of critically ill patients.
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.
DeCourcey
Mary
M
Wright State UniversityYMiami Valley College of Nursing and Health, Dayton, Ohio, USA.
Russell
Anne C
AC
Keister
Kathy J
KJ
D056447:Animal Assisted Therapy; D000818:Animals; D016638:Critical Illness; D001841:Human-Animal Bond; D006801:Humans