Purpose: This article discusses the results of an evaluation of the one-year implementation period of an integrative care program at a pediatric oncology ward, which consists of integrative care treatments offered three times a week to the patients. The guiding questions are how the model was implemented, which factors have to be considered for successful implementation, and which factors showed to be obstacles during implementation. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was applied for data saturation. Qualitative data consist of participant observations and informal conversations during the implementation phase. All observational records were filed in the data program MAXQDA. For the quantitative data, all integrative care treatments applied on the intensive care unit were documented and subsequently filed in an Excel sheet. Both sets of data were analyzed for the evaluation. Results: Four main thematic clusters influenced the implementation: (1) the organization and structure of the intensive care unit; (2) mood and atmosphere; (3) feedback on treatment; and (4) time and experience. All factors are interlinked and cannot be looked at independently. Results of the quantitative data show that the most frequent used treatments were those with calming and relaxing effects, followed by treatments for stomachache, nausea, and obstipation. Conclusions: The implementation of an integrative model of care is a process that demands thorough understanding of the complex setting of the ward, ongoing adaptation to the structures and organization of the ward, and the integration of factors like feedback, time, atmosphere, and the mood of parents, patients, and nurses.
<b><i>Purpose:</i></b> The aim of this article is to describe what needs to be considered in implementing care practices, in this case an integrative care program consisting of anthroposophic treatments, in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a teaching hospital. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We used a pediatric oncology department to implement an integrative care program. We conducted a qualitative study including participant observation and semi-structured interviews with parents, nurses, doctors, and therapists. Data analysis was based on a grounded theory approach and focused on the status quo of care in the ICU. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The following factors needed to be considered: the structure of the ICU, communication and information dissemination, and time constraints. This led to the following components of the integrative care program: (1) a training plan in anthroposophic treatments for all nurses that was conducted by 2 trained anthroposophic nurses, and (2) the introduction of an integrative shift that was on top of regular care at the ICU and focused on delivery of integrative care to patients. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> To add new care components to an ICU, the existing context has to be considered. Time constraints and high workload are factors that need to be recognized. In this particular context, a highly flexible program was the solution.
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