The Effects of Aroma on Apnea Attacks and Oxygen Saturation Among Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Background:

• Premature infants often experience apnea attacks and require careful monitoring of oxygen saturation (SpO2).
• Adaptable and effective interventions are crucial for managing neonatal care in diverse environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the impact of aromatherapy on apnea frequency and SpO2 levels in premature newborns.
• To assess the efficacy of aromatherapy as an adjuvant treatment for preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library up to November 1, 2022.
• Inclusion of seven studies after rigorous screening of 153 initial records.
• Analysis focused on aromatherapy's effects on apnea and SpO2 in premature infants.

Main Results:

• Aromatherapy utilizing scents from Rosa damascena, vanilla, and breast milk demonstrated a significant reduction in apnea attacks.
• Studies reported notable improvements in oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels in preterm infants exposed to these aromas.
• Aromatherapy emerged as a promising intervention for enhancing respiratory stability.

Conclusions:

• Aromatherapy can be considered an effective adjunctive therapy for decreasing apnea attacks in premature infants.
• The use of specific natural odors shows potential for improving respiratory outcomes in neonates.
• Further research may explore standardized protocols for aromatherapy in neonatal intensive care units.