Aromatherapy in the PACU

Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is one of the most common and distressing anesthesia related complications after surgery. Of the patients that experience PONV, 30% of patients experience vomiting while 50% experience nausea. High risk patients may have rates up to 80% (Odom-Forren, 2018). Patients need alternatives to the pharmacological interventions already provided. Aromatherapy inhalers with ginger, lavender, spearmint, and peppermint are a complementary, homeopathic, and a non-pharmacological option.

Source: Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing - July 31, 2019 Category: Nursing Authors: Jill de la Vega, Cheryl Gilliand, Laura Martinez, Beth Nardi, Nicole L. Pierce Tags: ASPAN National Conference Abstract Source Type: research