Nearly half of Americans, 48%, experience anxiety before visiting a doctor, marking an almost 10% rise from the previous year, as revealed by a recent survey. The primary causes of this anxiety include the fear of receiving bad news, concerns about potential procedures, and the inability to afford medical care. Additionally, some patients face medical-related phobias such as trypanophobia (fear of needles), iatrophobia (fear of doctors and medical tests), and claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces). These factors highlight the necessity for coping mechanisms to prevent delays or indefinite postponement of medical care due to anxiety.
Effect of patient anxiousness in MRI
For MRI exams, patient anxiousness is common. A recent study found that 66.6% of patients undergoing an MRI scan reported experiencing varying levels of anxiety during the procedure. Anxiety and claustrophobia can lead to aborted scans, resulting in significant revenue losses for healthcare facilities. Therefore, having a tool to help patients manage anxiety and reduce aborted scans is essential.
Recently, the use of clinical aromatherapy has been explored to help patients cope with any anxious or nervous feelings before, during, or after a medical-related event. Elequil Aromatabs® Aromatherapy, designed expressly for clinical settings, has been featured in over ten independent peer-reviewed clinical studies across various areas, including breast biopsy, ambulatory surgery, labor and delivery, and MRI exams.
How aromatherapy can help patients relax
In each of these studies, Elequil Aromatabs have been shown to promote relaxation during pain, soothe queasiness, and provide comfort and calmness to anxious patients. Below are some testimonials from patients and healthcare professionals regarding the use of Elequil Aromatabs during MRI procedures:
- "I'm astonished that something so small can have such a profound impact on relaxation."
- Marie, Texas - "It made an incredible difference, allowing me to finally complete my first MRI in five years." - Kisha, Maryland
- "We believe aromatherapy can replace medication to assist patients with anxiety during MRIs." - Theresa, Methodist Hospital of Southern California
- "We have nearly eradicated scan losses due to discomfort from being in an MRI."
- MRI Manager, SportsMED Orthopedic Surgery & Spine Center, Huntsville, AL
Aromatherapy made for the clinical setting
Elequil Aromatabs® aromatherapy is crafted from 100% pure essential oils and attaches directly to a patient's gown or clothing. It is free of metal and foil, making it ideal for MRIs. The adjustable tear notch lets each patient personalize the scent intensity to their preference. Lavender and Lavender-Sandalwood encourage relaxation, comfort, and sleep. Lavender-Peppermint aids in relaxation during pain, calms anxiousness, and eases queasiness. Orange-Peppermint and Orange-Ginger uplift and soothe queasiness.
For these reasons, Elequil Aromatabs are often the preferred choice in clinical environments.
To discover more about Elequil® and aromatherapy in clinical settings or to request trial materials for your facility, contact your Elequil Account Manager at 1.800.233.5539 or info@beekley.com.
Megan Sargalski
Marketing Communications Specialist
