Does Aromatherapy Decrease Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting?

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine if aromatherapy will prevent postoperative
nausea and vomiting (PONV). Peppermint aromatherapy will be used preemptively to test for
effectiveness, decreased PONV, and the ability to avoid anti-emetics. This study will seek to
demonstrate that peppermint aromatherapy is a simple, cost effective way to prevent PONV
after anesthesia. By decreasing the need for anti-emetics and incidence of PONV, patients may
have a quicker recovery time and experience less side effects from anti-emetics, such as
increased sedation. This problem is significant to patients and society as it may demonstrate
that the inhalation of peppermint can ease PONV and decrease costs due to anti-emetics, wound
dehiscence, and prolonged hospital stay. This study may lead to higher levels of patient
satisfaction; if the patients are not nauseated they may be more satisfied with their care.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Adult surgical patients ages 18 and older.

- Patients deemed medically stable by their surgery team.

- Anesthesia and Surgeon faculty approval will be obtained prior to asking the patient
for their consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Minors

- Unstable patients, such as ICU patients or intubated patients, pregnant women, and
prisoners.

- Patients with a history of severe PONV or severe delirium on emergence from anesthesia
will be excluded.