The effect of geranium aromatherapy on sleep quality in patients hospitalized in cardiac care units: A randomized controlled trial

Background & Aim: Sleep disorders are common among patients hospitalized in cardiac care units (CCUs), potentially impeding treatment outcomes and recovery processes. Aromatherapy has historically been employed to alleviate sleep disorders. This study aimed to determine the effect of geranium aromatherapy on sleep quality in patients hospitalized in CCUs. Methods & Materials: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2022 at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Qom. Seventy-two patients were selected via convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either the control group (n=35) or the intervention group (n=35). The intervention involved inhalation of geranium scent for three consecutive nights, whereas the control group received no such intervention. Data collection utilized the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ), administered pre- and post-intervention. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21, employing descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups regarding baseline demographic characteristics (P>0.05). Prior to the intervention, the mean sleep quality scores were 48.26±6.89 in the control group and 53.20±14.15 in the intervention group (P=0.110). Post-intervention, scores were 50.18±35.43 and 84.21±28.86, respectively, with the changes within groups being statistically significant (P<0.001). Across all dimensions of sleep quality, the intervention group demonstrated significantly better outcomes than the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that geranium aromatherapy appears to effectively improve sleep quality among CCU patients. Therefore, it is suggested that this method be used alongside existing treatments to enhance sleep quality in these patients.