Using the National Clinical Guideline for Stroke 2023 in evaluating music therapy provision at a stroke unit: A case study

Abstract

In 2023, the National Clinical Guideline for Stroke published updated guidelines for the treatment and rehabilitation of people surviving strokes. Approximately 240 people suffer a stroke every day in the UK. Post-stroke music therapy is evidenced to improve functional communication, mobility and cognitive functioning while improving patient mood and engagement in rehabilitation. This is a case study of a clinical audit that aimed to compare the music therapy service against the guidelines surrounding the intensity of therapy in rehabilitation, a patient’s opportunities for social interaction and interventions for anxiety, depression and psychological distress post stroke. The audit was carried out between November 2023 and February 2024 as part of Chiltern Music Therapy’s service at Wycombe Stroke Unit, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust. Anonymous quantitative and qualitative data was collected after every music therapy session and used to generate information and statistics relating to the stroke guidelines. The findings of this audit suggest that the music therapy provision meets stroke guidelines and other national standards for stroke survivors while providing an enjoyable, engaging intervention with benefits for mood, anxiety and social interaction opportunities. Furthermore, larger-scale randomized controlled trials are recommended.