The Effects of Aroma on Apnea Attacks and Oxygen Saturation Among Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Researchers and clinicians need to be aware of procedures that are more adaptable to new and different environments in premature infants; therefore, it is important to conduct a comprehensive review of the effect of aromatherapy on apnea attacks and oxygen saturation (SpO2) in premature newborns. In this review, databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched without language and time limitations up to November 1, 2022. Initially, 153 studies were founded, and after duplicate removal, title as well as full-text review, seven studies were enrolled in the final analysis. Studies indicated that aromatherapy with Rosa damascena, vanilla, and breast milk odors could significantly reduce apneas in preterm infants and improve SpO2 levels. Hence, aromatherapy could consider as an effective adjuvant treatment for the reduction of apnea attacks among preterm infants.