M
ost patients are nervous before surgery, especially now
when family members and loved ones are unable to wait
with them due to COVID-19 restrictions. That's why we tap
into the calming effects of aromatherapy. We hand out lavender aro-
matherapy inhalers in pre-op, and most patients say inhaling the scent
decreases their anxiety levels. The inhaler, which costs about $1.50,
looks like a lipstick container with a cotton ball inside that's been
soaked in essential oils. Patients also have access to the inhalers in
the PACU, and even take them home for use during their recoveries.
Thomas Koehler, BSN, RN, CNOR
John Muir Hospital
Walnut Creek, Calif.
tkrn.bsn1@gmail.com
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 • O U T P A T I E N T S U R
G E R Y . N E T • 9
BREATHE EASY
Lavender Scent Calms Anxious Patients
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SWEET SMELL Aromatherapy is an easy and inexpensive way to put patients at ease.
Thomas
Koehler
