Aromatherapy massage versus reflexology on female elderly with acute coronary syndrome

Effects of virtual reality on chest tube removal pain management in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting: a randomized clinical trial

The pain associated with chest tube removal (CTR) is one of the significant complications of cardiac surgery. The management of this pain is recognized as a vital component of nursing care. The application of distraction techniques using virtual reality (VR) is an effective and straightforward non-pharmacological approach to alleviate pain. This study aimed to determine the impact of VR technology on the management of pain caused by CTR following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 70 patients undergoing CABG at Imam Reza and Qaem hospitals in Mashhad, Iran, in 2020. The patients were randomly divided into two groups of 35. For the intervention group, a 360-degree video was played using VR glasses 5 min before the CTR procedure. The pain intensity was measured before, immediately after, and 15 min after CTR, using the Visual Analogue Scale. Also, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and the Rhoten Fatigue Scale (RFS) were used to evaluate intervention and control groups before the CTR procedure. The collected data was analyzed using statistical tests, such as Chi-square, independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney test. The patients were homogeneous in terms of stress, anxiety, and fatigue levels before CTR, and they did not show any significant differences (P > 0.05). The average pain intensity score of patients in the intervention group significantly decreased immediately and 15 min after CTR, compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Given the positive impact of VR distraction on the severity of pain associated with CTR in patients undergoing CABG, this technique can serve as an effective, accessible, and cost-efficient non-pharmacological approach for managing pain in these patients.Trial registration: This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (code: IRCT20190708044147N1; approval date, 08/26/2019).

Barriers and Facilitators to Delivering Inpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review

Objective

The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the literature on barriers and facilitators that influence the provision and uptake of inpatient cardiac rehabilitation (ICR).

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and AgeLine. Studies were included if they were published in English after the year 2000 and focused on adults who were receiving some form of ICR (eg, exercise counselling and training, education for heart-healthy living). For studies meeting inclusion criteria, descriptive data on authors, year, study design, and intervention type were extracted.

Results

The literature search resulted in a total of 44,331 publications, of which 229 studies met inclusion criteria. ICR programs vary drastically and often focus on promoting physical exercises and patient education. Barriers and facilitators were categorized through patient, provider and system level factors. Individual characteristics and provider knowledge and efficacy were categorized as both barriers and facilitators to ICR delivery and uptake. Team functioning, lack of resources, program coordination, and inconsistencies in evaluation acted as key barriers to ICR delivery and uptake. Key facilitators that influence ICR implementation and engagement include accreditation and professional associations and patient and family-centred practices.

Conclusion

ICR programs can be highly effective at improving health outcomes for those living with CVDs. Our review identified several patient, provider, and system-level considerations that act as barriers and facilitators to ICR delivery and uptake. Future research should explore how to encourage health promotion knowledge amongst ICR staff and patients.

Effect of Foot Reflexology and Benson Relaxation on Pain, Breastfeeding and Weight of Neonates of Women Undergoing a Cesarean Section

BACKGROUND

Given the negative effect of postoperative pharmacological pain control on breastfeeding, the present study aimed to compare the effects of reflexology and Benson relaxation methods on pain, breastfeeding, and infant weight gain in women undergoing a cesarean section (C/S).

METHODS

This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 135 women undergoing a C/S in the Gynecology Ward of Bushehr Persian Gulf Martyrs Hospital in Bushehr, Iran, in 2020. The participants were selected using convenience sampling, and randomly divided into three groups of foot reflexology, Benson relaxation, and control. The interventions were performed two hours post-operation and six hours after the first intervention. The pain score was measured and recorded immediately, and 30 and 60 minutes after each intervention. Breastfeeding frequency and duration were also assessed in the first 18 hours of birth. The infants' weight was assessed at birth and 10 days later. Data analysis was performed using inferential statistics, chi-square or Fisher's exact test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U or one-way ANOVA, Wilcoxon test and logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

There was a larger decrease in the pain score of the reflexology and Benson relaxation (P<0.01) groups after the first and second interventions, compared to the control group. The breastfeeding frequency was higher in the two intervention groups, compared to the control group (P<0.001). Furthermore, the rate of return to the birth weight in ten days of birth was higher in the reflexology (P<0.01) and Benson groups (P<0.05) than the control group.

CONCLUSION

Both the reflexology and the Benson relaxation methods effectively decreased pain and increased breastfeeding frequency and the infant's weight gain.

The Effects of Foot Reflexology on Vital Signs: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction

We evaluated the effects of foot reflexology on bodily vital signs.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of foot reflexology on vital signs were collected for a meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan5.4 software and pooled estimates of the effects were reported as mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Thirteen studies, including 819 patients, met our inclusion criteria. Our results showed that systolic blood pressure (SBP) (MD = -4.62, 95% CI: -5.58 to -3.66; P < 0.00001), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (MD = -3.32, 95% CI: -4.48 to -2.17; P < 0.00001), heart rate (HR) (MD = -4.76, 95% CI: -6.49 to -3.04; P < 0.00001), respiratory rate (RR) (MD = -0.77, 95% CI: -1.50 to -0.48; P < 0.00001), and pulse oxygen saturation (SpO₂) (MD = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.39 to 1.52; P = 0.0009) showed statistical significance in the foot reflexology group.

Conclusions

Short-term followup results showed that foot reflexology exerted positive effects on vital signs, reduced BP, HR, and RR and increased SpO₂.

Aromatherapy in Nursing and Midwifery Practice: A Scoping Review of Published Studies Since 2005

Background: Since the 1990's aromatherapy has been a popular adjunct to nursing and midwifery care in a variety of health care settings. Objective: The scoping review seeks to identify and confirm the benefits of incorporating aromatherapy into holistic nursing and midwifery practice Design: A scoping review using PRISMA-ScR of experimental studies where care is provided to the patient by a registered nurse or midwife. Settings and participants: Any health care setting where nurses or midwives provide care. Review Methods: A multi- engine search using a range of MeSH and non-MeSH terms with the Boolean search [AND]. Inclusion criteria were; publication date from 2005-2021, study involved aromatherapy as an intervention, conducted in a clinical nursing or midwifery environment and the published article is available in full in English. Excluded were; single patient cases, animal studies, in vitro studies, use of essential oils internally or a whole plant extract was used or use was non-nursing/midwifery related. Results: 124 studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 19188), classified into seven themes. Conclusion: The evidence supports the use of aromatherapy within a range of nursing and midwifery practices enhancing a holistic model of care. Impact: This scoping review contributes evidence to support the inclusion of aromatherapy into holistic nursing and midwifery practice.

The effect of reflexology massage and passive music therapy intervention before burn dressing on pain, anxiety level and sleep quality

BACKGROUND

The pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders that burn patients experience due to burn dressing negatively affect their treatment process. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of reflexology massage and passive music therapy intervention before burn dressing on pain, anxiety level and sleep quality.

METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial. The study sample consisted of 36 patients who were hospitalized in the Burn Center of a University Hospital. After obtaining written consent, patients were enrolled to study according to inclusion criteria and then, divided into Reflexology Massage (n = 12), Reflexology Massage with Passive Music Therapy (n = 12) and Control (n = 12) groups using simple random allocation. In the experimental groups, in addition to standard care, interventions were performed for consecutive three days. Interventions were done before dressing for 40 min in the patient's room. The control group received only standard care during this time. Severity of pain in three groups was measured using "Visual Analog Scale" twice a day (before dressing change and 2 h after dressing change). Severity of state anxiety and sleep quality in three groups was measured using "State Anxiety Scale" and "Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire" once a day (before dressing change). Severity of trait anxiety in three groups was measured using "Trait Anxiety Scale" for two times (before and after study). The drugs used by the patients for 3 days were recorded in the "Opioid and Analgesic Drug Form." Data were analyzed using Pearson Chi-square, Independent Samples T-test, One-Way ANOVA, Bonferroni, Paired Sample T-Test, Repeated Measures ANOVA tests were used.

RESULTS

The results showed no significant difference in severity of pain, anxiety, and sleep quality (p > 0,05) between the three groups on the first day. However, the mean pain scores showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the third (p < 0,05) and fourth (p < 0001) days after intervention. Anxiety scores also showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups on the fourth (p < 0001) day. Sleep quality of the experimental groups was higher than the control group on the fourth day (p < 00001). No significant difference using of opioid and analgesic drugs between the three groups (p > 0,05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed reflexology massage and passive music therapy before burn dressing reduced pain and anxiety level, and increased sleep quality.

Aromatherapy Massage vs. Foot Reflexology on the Severity of Restless Legs Syndrome in Female Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

This study aimed to compare the effects of reflexology and aromatherapy massage on the severity of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in 105 female patients undergoing hemodialysis. A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in a hemodialysis center with 48 beds in a high turnover hospital in an urban area of Iran. Intervention groups received reflexology (n = 35) and aromatherapy massage using lavender essential oil (n = 35) for 24 sessions, and the placebo group (n = 35) received simple foot massage. The restless legs syndrome rating scale was used to assess RLS severity in the groups before the intervention and after 4 and 8 weeks of the interventions. Results obtained by the mixed model analysis 3 * 3 (3 groups * 3 times) revealed the significant effect of time, group, and the time-group interrelationship (p = 0.001). Aromatherapy massage reduced the RLS severity, but reflexology did not appear to cause any significant reduction in it. Therefore, we suggest that aromatherapy massage be incorporated into routine care for relieving the ailment and suffering of patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Comparing the Effect of Aromatherapy with Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oils on Fatigue of Cardiac Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 105 cardiac patients. They were randomly divided into three groups: peppermint essential oil (n = 35), lavender essential oil (n = 35), and control (n = 35). Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) was used to collect data. The intervention was performed for 7 nights. Before and after the intervention, the questionnaire was completed by all patients. In each intervention group, patients inhaled 3 drops of lavender or peppermint essential oils. In the control group, patients inhaled 3 drops of aromatic placebo.

Results

The results showed the average fatigue decreased in the study groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups of lavender and peppermint in terms of mean fatigue after the intervention. However, there was a statistically significant difference between lavender and control groups (P < 0.001), as well as peppermint and control groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Aromatherapy with peppermint and lavender essential oils can reduce the fatigue of cardiac patients, so the use of these fragrances is recommended.

The Effect of Aromatherapy Massage With Lavender and Citrus Aurantium Essential Oil on Quality of Life of Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial Study

CONTEXT

Poor quality of life is a major problem in hemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to assess the effect of aromatherapy massage on hemodialysis patients' quality of life.

METHODS

In this parallel randomized clinical trial study, 105 hemodialysis patients who meet the inclusion criteria were assessed and assigned into intervention and control groups using block randomization. Participants in the intervention groups received aromatherapy massage with Lavender essential oil or Citrus Aurantium essential oil for four weeks (three times per week). For the control group, only foot massage was performed. The level of quality of life was measured by the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics (analysis of variance, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests).

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between the mean score of quality of life in the Lavender essential oil group and Citrus Aurantium essential oil group with the control group after intervention. However, there was no significant difference between the mean score of quality of life in the Lavender essential oil group and Citrus Aurantium essential oil group after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, both aromatherapy massages have positive effects on the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Therefore, nurses are advised to use these aromatherapy massages to improve the quality of life of hemodialysis patients.

The Relevance of Complementary and Integrative Medicine in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Review of the Literature

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic people are facing risks of adverse health effects due to the restrictions implemented such as quarantine measures, reduced social contact, and self-isolation. In this qualitative review, we collected data on potential preventive and therapeutic health benefits of Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM) that might be useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have reviewed the scientific literature to summarize CIM practices that could be beneficial for improving physical and mental health and well-being of the population under the current pandemic circumstances. It must be noted that this review is not SARS-CoV-2 specific and we explicitly do not intend to make any SARS-CoV-2 specific health claims in this article. Methods and Findings: A qualitative, non-systematic literature review was conducted in Medline to identify literature describing preventive and therapeutic CIM approaches for strengthening mental and physical health. For a variety of CIM approaches clinical evidence was identified, indicating beneficial effects. CIM approaches include specific dietary measures and selected micronutrients, physical activity, techniques from Mind-Body Medicine, single botanicals or botanical compounds, and spending time in nature among others. The effects of CIM measures on conditions like obesity and hypertension are of special relevance here, as these conditions are considered as risk factors for a severe course of COVID-19. Moreover, a possibly direct effect of CIM approaches on immune functions and clinical parameters in respiratory tract infections, such as influenza, were identified. The findings of this review could be helpful for clinicians, patients, and the general population during the current pandemic when discussing and/or considering CIM options. Conclusions: CIM offers a variety of preventive and therapeutic options for strengthening physical and mental resilience, which could also be useful in the current COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence of CIM approaches with a potential benefit in the COVID-19 pandemic in different areas is worth to be analyzed. While this qualitative review has several obvious limitations, it might serve as useful starting point for further research on this topic.

The Effect of Hand Reflexology Massage on Pain and Fatigue in Patients after Coronary Angiography: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction

Coronary angiography can cause pain and fatigue in patients. Hand reflexology as complementary and integrative care approach has been suggested to help with the reduction of patient's pain and fatigue.

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand reflexology on pain and fatigue in patients after coronary angiography.

Design

A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Methods

This study was conducted on 90 patients in an angiography department of a referral hospital in an urban area of Iran. The patients were randomly divided into two interventions (n = 45) and control (n = 45) groups. Hand reflexology was performed for 20 minutes in the intervention group. Pain and fatigue in the groups were measured immediately, 4 and 6 hours after the intervention.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed in pain and fatigue scores between the groups after the intervention (P = 0.001). The intervention had medium to large effects on the patients' pain and fatigue. Hand reflexology as a nonpharmacological and safe technique can be used by nurses along with other pharmacologic interventions in order to reduce patients' suffering related to invasive procedures. The trial is registered with IRCT20110912007529N17.

Comparison the effects of inhalation and massage aromatherapy with lavender and sweet orange on fatigue in hemodialysis patients: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

Fatigue, regardless of the causes, could leave a negative impact on individual performance. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of inhalation and massage aromatherapy with lavender and sweet orange on fatigue among hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial. The patients (96 patients) were allocated to three groups (control, an inhalation aromatherapy, and an aromatherapy massage group). A demographic questionnaire as well as the rhoten fatigue scale (RFS) was used to collect the data. The data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics using SPSS version 18.

RESULTS

Before the intervention, there was no significant difference among the groups regarding fatigue level (p=0.54). However, eight and 16 weeks after the study, the levels of fatigue in both experimental groups were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions with essential oils are effective in reducing fatigue in hemodialysis patients, although the effects of aromatherapy massage on fatigue are stronger than the effects of inhalation aromatherapy.