Nancy Loveridge considers how touch can assist in developing a therapeutic relationship

The objective of task orientated touch in trauma resuscitation is to bring about a recognised physical therapeutic result. However, while Driscoll’s (1993) approach to the resuscitation process does decrease the level of mortality, the technology used also reduces the need to touch the patient. Examples of these are spinal boards and electronic blood pressure machines. Watts (1998) claims that when a patient is touched, pain and loss of dignity are associated with the process, while Jay’s (1996) research into the effect of resuscitation highlights the patient feels abandoned, neglected and requiring physical comfort.