Live piano in the ICU: a soothing tune for critical care?

NCT ID NCT03948984

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a 20-minute live classical music session (piano with or without flute) could help reduce anxiety and pain and increase relaxation in critically ill ICU patients. Researchers also looked at how patients, families, and staff felt about the music. The study included 111 adult ICU patients at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: therapeutic live classical music session
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to help ICU patients feel less anxious and more relaxed during their hospital stay.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 111 patients at one hospital, so results may not apply to all ICUs. The music may not help everyone, and some patients may find it distracting or unpleasant.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Critical Illness Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY CRITICAL ILLNESS PAIN RELAXATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, Tennessee, 37212, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.