What are health professionals' and staff’s perceptions of, and experiences with, Animal-Assisted Interventions in health care settings?
The population of interest is health care professionals and staff working in health care settings. In this review, health care professionals are registered/certified paid professionals working in health care settings, including, but are not limited to: physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers, occupational therapists, physical therapist, psychologists, psychiatrists, and registered massage therapists. Health care staff include, but are not limited to, managers, medical office assistants, and administrative/clerical staff. We will consider health care providers and staff over the age of 18, regardless of gender, ethnic origin and socioeconomic status.
The phenomenon of interest is Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs). AAIs are defined as 'goal-oriented and structured interventions that intentionally incorporate animals in health, education, and human service for the purpose of therapeutic gains and improved health and wellness' (Pet Partners, 2020). AAI is an umbrella term, that incorporates both Animal-Assisted Therapy and Animal-Assisted Activity, which will also be considered in this review.
The phenomenon of interest is Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs). AAIs are defined as 'goal-oriented and structured interventions that intentionally incorporate animals in health, education, and human service for the purpose of therapeutic gains and improved health and wellness' (Pet Partners, 2020). AAI is an umbrella term, that incorporates both Animal-Assisted Therapy and Animal-Assisted Activity, which will also be considered in this review.