Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton Starlight Therapy Subject of National Publication and Poster Presentation

Congratulations to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton authors Kathleen Emerson, LPN, CHPLN, Linda Quinlin, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, NP-C, ACHPN, Mary Murphy, MS,RN,CNS,AOCN, ACHPN, (pictured L to R) and Miami Valley Hospital clinician Patricia O’Malley PhD, RN, CNS, CCRN-Alumnus, whose article “Evaluation of a Low Light Intervention- Starlight Therapy –for Agitation, Anxiety, Restlessness, Sleep Disturbances, Dyspnea and Pain at End of Life” has been accepted for publication in the June issue of the Journal of Hospice and Palliative Nursing. The group will also be among the featured poster presenters at the February annual assembly in Phoenix, Arizona at the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Nursing Association. The Annual Assembly brings together nearly 3,000 hospice and palliative care clinicians to share research, clinical best practices, and practice-related guidance to advance the specialty and improve patient care.

Research into the impact of starlight therapy was initiated at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton over five years ago when laser star projectors were first introduced to patient care. The projection of starlight onto the ceiling and walls of patient rooms proved to be a valuable therapy in easing anxiety, pain and restlessness among patients. Research also demonstrated a reduction in the need for pharmaceutical interventions for patients with a positive response to the light therapy approach.