Investigation of Healthcare Providers' Receptiveness to Aromatherapy as an Adjunctive Intervention for the Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Gynecological Procedures

There is a knowledge deficit concerning healthcare providers' understanding of the use of aromatherapy as an intervention for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in clinical settings. Postoperative nausea and vomiting continues to exist despite using common pharmacological treatments to block receptors that stimulate the vomiting center (DiLustro, 2017). Postoperative nausea and vomiting leads to adverse effects that decrease patient satisfaction and prolong hospital stays. Healthcare providers need an adjunct therapy that minimizes risks and improves outcomes (Weibel et al., 2017). Through this project, provider understanding, and preferences were obtained and educational content delivered to potentially improve patient PONV outcomes. Using Qualtrics®, the authors developed an online survey to evaluate healthcare providers' attitudes toward implementing aromatherapy in the clinical setting. The survey assessed both quantitative and qualitative responses. Analysis revealed that healthcare providers are receptive to using aromatherapy for PONV.