Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this program assessment was to evaluate the utilization and effectiveness of patient- controlled, inhaled aromatherapy in the reduction of post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and frequency of antiemetic use.|Design: A program assessment evaluating patient’s perceived nausea before and after aromatherapy intervention.|Methods: Patients in Post anesthesia car unit and medical surgical units were asked to rate nausea on a 1-10 Likert scale prior to aromatherapy intervention and following aromatherapy intervention. The need for pharmacologic intervention was documented if needed.|Findings: Overall, 129 patients’ utilized aromatherapy. There was a statistically significant difference between nausea reports before aromatherapy (M = 6.89) and after aromatherapy (M = 3.77). Of the patients who were given aromatherapy, 61% (n = 79) patients requested an antiemetic and 39% (n = 50) did not request an antiemetic.|Conclusion: This supports the use of aromatherapy as a first line rescue treatment for PONV.