Medical Manuscripts Symptomatic Improvement Reported After Receiving Reiki at a Cancer Infusion Center

Objective: To evaluate patient-perceived benefits from receiving Reiki at a cancer infusion center.Methods: During a 6-month period, adults at a university hospital receiving Reiki through volunteer services were invited to complete a survey asking about perceived changes after Reiki. Changes in pain, mood, distress, sleep, and appetite were rated on a 5-point scale from no benefit to great benefit. Surveys were distributed after completing treatment and were returned in postage-paid envelops. Results: A total of 145 surveys were completed (34.5 % response rate), with 47 participants seen in the cancer infusion center and 98 in other areas of the hospital. Reiki was rated as a positive experience by 94 % at the cancer center and 93 % of others, with 92 % at the cancer center and 86 % of others interested in receiving additional Reiki sessions. Symptomatic improvement was similar for people at the cancer center and others, respectively, with much to great improvement for 89 % and 86 % for relaxation, 75