Sensory training outline CPD training

Class 20 nurses

Feedback and introduction

No 1  Why use aromas for wellbeing, evidence.

the research and professional anecdotal knowledge

No 2 Introduction to essential oils, 

Background on the oils 

Activating smells and soothing aromas

No 3 Safe use of oils 10 safety rules 

No 4 Finding your own activating and soothing aromas

No 5 Mindfulness session

No 6 skin care as part of wellbeing

No 7 personal oils

No 8 Hand massage

Review all of us

Essential oils in the ER

GUIDE TO SAFE PRACTICE USING ESSENTIAL OILS IN THE WARD ENVIRONMENT

1)                  Essential oils: Only the following approved essential oils are to be used and stored on the premises. Material Safety Data sheets are to be obtained for each essential oil.

Bergamot                         Sweet Marjoram 

Roman Chamomile              Melissa

Clary Sage                         Patchouli

Geranium                        Petitgrain

Grapefruit                        Rose Otto

           Lavender                            Sandalwood

Lemon                          Mandarin

Lime                   Sweet Marjoram

Orange                              Neroli

2)                  Method of use of essential oils: Always dilute essential oils, never use them neat or take them internally. Only use the oils in the methods agreed and covered in training and in the dilutions specified for each method below:

- Bath/Foot or Hand Spa: Run the bath first, then add 4-6 drops of essential oil and swish around until dispersed.

- Massage oil: Add 2 drops of essential oil to each 5ml or large teaspoon of vegetable carrier oil such as grapeseed or sunflower oil.

- Hand cream/moisturiser: Add 2 drops of essential oil to each 5ml or large teaspoon of plain lotion or moisturiser. Mix well.

Indirect inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oil to the vapouriser and switch on. The vapouriser only needs to be on for up to an hour and the oils will be diffused in the air.

 Burners using candles are not permitted. All diffusers to be checked for safety.

Direct inhalation: Place 2 or 3 drops of chosen essential oil onto tissue and put inside a pillow case at night. Alternatively place onto a tissue or cloth and inhale deeply through the nose, being careful not to touch directly to the skin as the oils may irritate.

Some methods such as perfume bottles may already be blended to the correct dilution.

3)                  Assessment: Before starting to use aromatherapy, first assess each person and record relevant information:

- purpose of using aromatherapy

- any health considerations and possible contra-indications eg epilepsy - avoid rosemary

- consult medical or health care practitioners if necessary

- their chosen oils

- how to be used

- when and how often to be used

                  - if using self massage state clearly which parts of the body can be massaged eg hands                 and face

4)                  Staffing:

-Appointed staff member who is responsible for purchasing oils and carriers, responsible for safe-keeping and over seeing safe use of essential oils including dates they are opened and use by dates, responsible for maintaining health and safety, doing risk assessments as necessary and consulting aromatherapist or GP etc as necessary

-  All staff using essential oils on the ward to have completed approved in-house training. Only designated and approved staff to blend oils and supervise other staff to use the blends safely. List names:

5)                  Recording information: Record information about the use of aromatherapy for each person and evaluate regularly. Record any incidents or adverse reactions

6)                  State where the aromatherapy is to take place eg in person's room, beauty salon, communal area

7)                  Safe use of essential oils: Essential oils are governed by COSHH regulations and their use in the workplace is covered by Health and Safety at work regulations.

- Storing essential oils: Store essential oils and blends in a locked cupboard or fridge away from heat and light. Use the essential oils within 1-2 years once opened and and within 3 months once blended. Qualified access only. When in use do not leave the blends unattended.

-Labelling: Label all bottles and blends with the name of the person who will use it, the essential oils used, the carrier, proportion of the blend and the date.

- Essential oils and blends to be prepared in well-ventilated area. Spillage to be cleared up immediately and area well-ventilated

8)                  First Aid Procedures:

- Accidents – record as health and safety incident

- If essential oils are swallowed treat in same way as when person takes other harmful substances and seek medical advice.

- Accidental spillage or irritation to the skin or eyes. Irrigate with milk or carrier oil, then rinse with plenty of fresh water and seek medical advice if necessary.