Paper
Friday, July 13, 2007
This presentation is part of : Aromatherapy in Nursing Research and Practice
Nurse Practitioner Use of Aromatherapy for Management of Psychosocial Symptoms in Persons with Alzheimer's Disease
Evelyn L. Cesarotti, PhD, FNP, College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA


Psychosocial symptoms associated with Alzheimer disease are common and distressing to patients and caregivers. Symptoms can be depression, anxiety, psychoses, agitation, apathy, or extreme lethargy. Many documented behavior approaches have been utilized with varied results, but pharmacological interventions are then used when these methods are ineffective. However, even pharmacological interventions may not be effective in managing symptoms, and there is increased risk of side effects and risk of falls with the administration of any psychotropic drugs. Purpose

The purpose of this project was to conduct a trial clinical protocol using aromatherapy for management of psychosocial symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s disease in assisted living facilities. Methodology

Permission was obtained from the assisted living facilities and the patient’s families. A written protocol was individualized for each patient, and staff were instructed on use. The essential oil was applied in a two inch circle on the inside of the wrist which facilitated absorption as well inhalation. However the primary mode was intended to be by inhalation.

Results

Nine of the 12 subjects in the intervention trial had positive responses to the aromatherapy, resulting in marked decrease in use of psychotropic medications. The remaining three subjects had no change. Unlike some studies reviewed by Maddocks-Jennings and Wilkinson (2004), no allergic reactions occurred. This may be due to the screening protocol as patients with history of atopic dermatitis were not used in the trial. Conclusions and Implications for Nursing Practice

Some researchers have questioned the usefulness of aromatherapy, considering that there is degeneration of the olfactory bulb in Alzheimer's disease. This clinical protocol trial and recent studies in the literature demonstrate usefulness of aromatherapy in patients without side effects if properly administered.