Under the responsibility of Dr. Kuteifan, the medical intensive care unit of the GHRMSA (Groupe Hospitalier de la Région de Mulhouse Sud-Alsace) has set up a clinical study called AROMADELI, intended to evaluate the efficacy of aromatherapy in the prevention of delirium or confusional syndrome in patients undergoing medical intensive care. Delirium is a disorder of consciousness associated with changes in cognitive abilities and perception, of rapid onset, fluctuating, not explained by a pre-existing cognitive deficit or by pharmacological sedation. Two thirds of the patients managed in intensive care may be concerned.
The study is conducted by a clinical research group composed of physicians and caregivers trained in aromatherapy. Anne-Florence is the project leader: ‘The study started in September 2020. It is a randomized, double-blind study where treatments are randomized: the patients included receive either a placebo or the essential oil blend. The treatment is done by massaging the arch of the foot twice a day, over several days before the patient wakes up. The inclusion of patients requires the consent of the families who show great interest in this study. We have included about 100 patients out of 260 planned. We hope to finish the study in 18 months.’
The grant from the Gattefossé Foundation allows us to finance the preparation of essential oils, their labeling by the city pharmacy and their management by the GHRMSA.
