PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
To alleviate patient stress, the Ophthalmology department at Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) hospital plays spiritual music during surgeries. Individuals of all ages, whether adults or the elderly, often experience anxiety about undergoing surgical procedures. In response to these challenges, the department at GDMC has been working to create a more comfortable environment.
Senior eye specialist at GDMC hospital Dr Sushil Ojha informed that it is known that patients tend to feel tense during surgeries, which can sometimes result in elevated blood pressure and other issues. For many years, the Ophthalmology department has addressed this issue by playing spiritual compositions like the Sundarkand and Mantras in the designated areas while performing surgeries.
He informed that this practice has been ongoing at the GDMC for the past nine years. The primary goal of playing spiritual songs during surgeries is to alleviate the stress and anxiety experienced by patients undergoing these procedures. He informed that there has been a noticeable reduction in the number of surgery cancellations associated with this approach and patients have been observed to feel more motivated post-surgery as a result. Ojha informed that surgeons at the hospital perform between 15 to 20 eye surgeries daily while playing spiritual music during these procedures.
Clinical psychologist Dr Pratibha Sharma commended the measure for promoting the mental and emotional well-being of patients. She said that individuals cannot manage their emotions and fears during surgery. However, playing spiritual songs during surgeries can help distract the patient’s mind and create a positive atmosphere while minimising negative emotions. Further, this approach can enhance patients’ recovery and healing rates from the surgeries. She emphasised that many other hospitals should adopt this practice, particularly in chemotherapy, where spiritual music should be incorporated.
