A pilot study to predict success with guided imagery for cancer pain

American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis,  Apr 2004  by Hammond, D Corydon

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Kwekkeboom, K. L., Kneip, J., & Pearson, L. (2003). A pilot study to predict success with guided imagery for cancer pain. Pain Management Nursing, 4(3), 112-123. There is no tested method to identify which patients are likely to benefit from the use of guided imagery as a pain management strategy.

This pilot study evaluated a model to predict success with guided imagery. The major variables tested included imaging ability, outcome expectancy, history of imagery use, match with preferred coping style, and perceived credibility of the imagery provider. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used. A sample of 62 hospitalized cancer patients currently experiencing pain rated that was rated 3 or greater on a O to 10 scale completed questionnaires and used an audiotaped imagery intervention. Pain outcomes examined included mean pain intensity and distress, positive and negative affect, and perceived control over pain. A path analysis was conducted using multiple regression to evaluate relationships proposed in the model. Previous history with imagery predicted outcome expectancy. Imaging ability predicted mean pain intensity, positive affect, and perceived control over pain. Contrary to sociocognitive theory, outcome expectancy was not a significant predictor of any pain outcomes. Baseline status and concurrent symptoms, measured as covariates, also played a significant role in predicting outcomes. Variance explained in pain outcomes ranged from 10% to 52% (adjusted R(2) = 3% to 48%). Further exploration of model variables was judged to be warranted. The findings suggest that after considering current symptom experience, imaging ability may be a useful variable to assess in order to determine whether guided imagery is an appropriate intervention for individual patients. Address for reprints: K. L. Kwekkeboom, University of Iowa College of Nursing, 314 Nursing Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. E-mail: kristine-kwekkeboom @uiowa.edu.

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