AROMATHERAPY EFFECTS ON PAIN IN PATIENTS WITH CANCER:A LITERATURE REVIEWANGELA FONTENOT BSN, RN-FNP STUDENT & DR. TWILA STERLING-GUILLORY, PhD, FNP-BC, APRNMcNEESESTATE UNIVERSITY, LAKE CHARLES, LA
Background
Purpose
Method
Findings
Summary
Implications
Cancer pain is a significant health issue that affects many patient in all different stages of their diagnosis. The consequences of unmanaged pain can result in depression and anxiety. Essential oil aromatherapy has been suggested as an effective alternative treatment for symptom management in cancer patients with pain, anxiety, and depression. It is important for a healthcare provider to make informed evidenced-based decisions when utilizing alternative treatments for symptom management in the adult cancer patient.
To determine if essential oil aromatherapy is an effective treatment for pain, anxiety, and depression in the adult cancer patient.
A literature review of 15 studies including: 2 randomized control trial (RCT), 3 systematic review of a RCT, 1 integrative review, 3 descriptive systematic reviews, 1 single descriptive systematic review, 1 meta-analysis of RCTs, 1 clinical practice guidelines, 1 single descriptive quantitative review, 1 well-designed control trial without randomization, 1 opinion of authorities and expert committees
Significant evidence was seen in the literature reviewed in the validity of essential oil aromatherapy as an effective treatment for cancer pain, anxiety, and depression in adults. Consideration must be given in the determination of validity as limited hierarchy of evidence seen in studies available for review.* Pain 10/12 reported improvement* Anxiety 10/11 reported improvement* Depression 8/10 reported improvement
The healthcare provider can offer a holistic approach that is simple, safe, economical and evidence-based by incorporating Essential Oil Aromatherapy with traditional medical treatments for the management of pain, anxiety, and depression in adult cancer patients. Further research is needed on long-term effects greater than 12 months and updated clinical practice guidelines are recommended for consistency of treatments utilized.
+= positive results_= negative or statistically not significantNS= not studied
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References
Full references available on request.
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