Focus group interviews: how aromatherapists feel about changing their practice through undertaking a randomised
1Faculty of Health and Human Science, Thames Valley University, Slough SL1 1YG, UK. gaye.kyle@tvu.ac.uk
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
|July 22, 2008
Summary
A randomized controlled trial on aromatherapy for palliative care patients found that while research protocols impacted therapists' holistic practice, their commitment to the study was paramount. This highlights the balance between research rigor and holistic care principles.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Complementary Therapies
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Anxiety is a common symptom in palliative care patients.
- Aromatherapy is explored as a non-pharmacological intervention for anxiety.
- Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are a common method for evaluating treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore aromatherapists' experiences when participating in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
- To understand the impact of RCT protocols on holistic aromatherapy practice.
- To identify factors influencing therapists' engagement with research.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study was conducted alongside a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
- Data was gathered from aromatherapists participating in the RCT.
- Thematic analysis was used to interpret the therapists' experiences.
Main Results:
- Aromatherapists expressed concerns about maintaining holistic principles within a strict RCT protocol.
- Participation in the RCT influenced the therapists' practice.
- Therapists' commitment to the research objectives was a significant factor.
Conclusions:
- RCT participation can challenge traditional holistic practices in complementary therapies.
- Therapist commitment and adaptability are crucial for successful integration of research into practice.
- Further research could explore strategies to better integrate holistic care within clinical trials.
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