Non-Pharmacological Adjuncts: Supporting Dyspnea and Intractable Nausea by adding Clinical Reflexology and Aromatherapy to the Hospice Plan of Care

Friday, October 7, 2011: 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Primary Presenter:
Valerie Hartman, RN, CHPN, CTRN
Area of Emphasis: Clinical/Medical Care
Learning Objectives:
1. Define the complementary and alternative therapy role in end-of-life care relating to the stress component of clinical symptoms of dyspnea and intractable nausea
2. Discuss the basic history, theory, and practice of clinical reflexology (hand and foot) and its modern role in healthcare practices
3. Discuss the history, theory and practice of clinical aromatherapy, safety and use of two essential oils that support nausea
Complementary Therapy practices are making their way into regular use in hospice and palliative care settings. Volunteer and hired therapists certified in music, art, massage and bodywork therapy practice with sensitivity, professionalism and boundaries working within the IDT. Many hospice programs have discovered that these approaches alter the nervous system response to fear, provide peace and relief of stress symptoms. Holy Redeemer Hospice  has been utilizing massage and bodywork therapy through an innovative role, the CTRN (Complementary Therapy Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse) since 2002; this seesion provides education and anecdotal insight on the clinical benefits of reflexology and aromatherapy used by nurses as an integrative therapy, and part of the plan of care, for treating symptoms.
See more of: 60-minute session
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