Essential Oil Use With Breast Imaging A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Patient Experience
• Women's Health

Background:

• Essential oils are increasingly explored for therapeutic benefits.
• Patient-reported outcomes are crucial in healthcare settings.
• Understanding patient perceptions of complementary therapies is vital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess women's familiarity, enjoyment, relaxation effects, and future intentions regarding essential oil use during breast imaging.
• To explore the factors influencing acceptance of essential oils in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, exploratory study design was employed.
• An investigator-designed questionnaire surveyed 51 women undergoing breast imaging procedures.
• Data collected included demographics, essential oil choice, anxiety, acceptance, familiarity, relaxation, enjoyment, and future use intention.

Main Results:

• High enjoyment (97.9%) and familiarity (76%) with essential oils were reported.
• A significant majority experienced relaxation (94%) and intended future use (94%).
• Acceptance of essential oils was primarily driven by prior familiarity.

Conclusions:

• Essential oils are well-received by women undergoing breast imaging.
• These findings support the integration of essential oils to enhance patient experience and promote relaxation.
• Familiarity appears to be a key factor in the acceptance of essential oils in this context.