The Period Prevalence of Mind and Body Practice Use by Adult Emergency Department Patients.

Abstract

Mind and Body Practice (MBP) use (e.g., chiropractic, acupuncture, meditation) among Emergency Department (ED) patients is largely unknown. We aimed to determine the period prevalence, nature of MBP use, and perceptions of MBP among adult ED patients. We undertook a cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of patients presenting to three EDs between February and June 2016. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they were aged 18 years or more and had presented for medical treatment. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire, based upon a validated pediatric questionnaire, was completed by the patient, with assistance if required. The primary outcome was the nature and 12 month period prevalence of MBP use. Secondary outcomes were variables associated with use and patient perceptions of MBP. 674 patients were enrolled. In the previous 12 months, 500 (74.2%) patients had used at least one MBP. MBP users and nonusers did not differ in gender, ancestry, or chronic illness status (p > 0.05). However, users were significantly younger and more likely to have private health insurance (p < 0.001). A total of 2094 courses of 68 different MBP had been used including massage (75.0% of users), meditation (35.2%), chiropractic (32.6%), acupuncture (32.0%), and yoga (30.6%). Users were significantly more likely (p < 0.01) to believe that MBP prevented illness, treated illness, were more effective than prescription medicines, assisted prescription medications, and were safe and provided a more holistic approach. Forty-one (6.1%) patients used MBP for their ED presenting complaint. However, only 14 (34.1%) advised their ED physician of this. The period prevalence of MBP use among ED patients is high. Knowledge of the MBP used for a patient's presenting complaint may better inform the ED physician when making management decisions.