Sure, music is soothing, but there us more to having music at the bedside than just playing a tune.
Healthcare music can be played on almost any instrument. Of course electric music and even some types of drumming are not appropriate, but for the most part a harp or guitar or flute (to name a few) would be a wonderful addition to the treatment and therapy already given to a patient.
The phrase to remember is "addition to the treatment". Music is a adjunct therapy in the healing process. The skills of the doctors, nurses and therapists and other clinicians are a vital part of the healing process. Music adds the extra dimension to the patient. Obviously it is a means of distraction - but there is even more than that.
Healthcare music is not entertainment. Rather it is a service.
A healthcare musician does not arrive knowing in advance what they want to play. The musician will assess the patient and determine the needs of the patient. It is great to know a bit about the situation; the condition of the patient, and most importantly what is affecting the patient at that moment. The musician will determine what rhythm to play; should it be melodic or free form; should it have a tempo or should it be non-rhythmic. There are many different techniques. Sometimes then, music will have no tempo or will be played very slowly. At times, there might not even be a melody. Many techniques are used at the bedside.
For example: In acute care or cases where the patient is agitated, heartbeat-tempo music should be played. This is a tempo that is similar to the beating heart. The music, tones or notes are played between 60 and 80 beats per minute. It does not have to be melodic, it should have a harmony and keep a steady beat. Healthcare music is simple and straight to the point. As indicated before, it should not be considered entertainment.
Then again, an agitated patient might respond better to a free flowing non-rhythmic sound. This is where live music takes precedence over recorded music. The musician can change at any given moment to fit the needs of the patient.
A patient in pain may also respond well to a non-rhythmic piece of music, taking them away from their situation and allow them peaceful sleep.
Alzheimer's and dementia patients respond well to old familiar melodies. It gives them a foundation and connection from their past.
Neo-natal? A heartbeat tempo type of music would be best, but not structured to the baby's heartbeat, it is structured to the heartbeat of the mother.
As for pre-op or some chronic cases, some simple melodies should be a grateful distraction to the usual sounds of the hospital.
Hospice music is anything that would allow the patient to live until they die - allowing them the dignity of transition. Depending on the stage, it can be anything from melodic to non-rhythmic. It is an honor for healthcare musicians to play for hospice.