The effect of rosemary essential oil inhalation on sleepiness and alertness of shift-working nurses: A randomized, controlled field trial. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nasiri, Ahmad; Boroomand, Masoomeh Mo'tamed
• Is Part Of: Complementary therapies in clinical practice. Volume 43(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Nurse -- Shift working -- Rosemary -- Sleepiness -- Alertness -- Rosemary essential oil; Integrative medicine -- Periodicals; Integrative medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; Alternative medicine -- Periodicals; 615.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2021.101326
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-3881

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Sleepiness during the night shift is a common complaint of shift workers, including the nurses. This study investigated the effects of inhaled rosemary oil on sleepiness and alertness of shift-working nurses. Methods: Eighty shift-working nurses were selected and assigned randomly into control (n = 40) and intervention (n = 40) groups. Both groups completed the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Survey before the intervention. The intervention group received one drop of rosemary essential oil using a mask. The control group received a drop of distilled water instead, after which the questionnaires were completed for a second time. Results: The sleepiness mean score in the intervention group reduced from 12.15 to 8.3, while it increased from 11.41 to 13.76 in the control group (P < 0.001). The alertness mean scores changed from 4.45 to 3.25 and from 4.41 to 5.34 in intervention and control groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Rosemary aroma decreased sleepiness and increased alertness in shift-working nurses. Highlights: Rosemary essential oil inhalation is an easy and natural procedure. No complications were observed following Rosemary essential oil inhalation in the present study Aromatherapy with rosemary scent can reduce nurses' sleepiness. Rosemary essential oil inhalation can increase alertness in nurses. Using a mask is an appropriate way to inhale a scent for nurses who are working