The Effect of Aromatherapy with Rose Water on the Deep Sleep Status of Premature Infants Admitted to NICU: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study

Introduction: Sleep, as a biological process, plays an essential role in brain development and infant development and its effects on the development of Sensory and brain system. Studies show different psychological effects of complementary medicine methods including aromatherapy on patients. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of aromatherapy with rose water on the deep sleep status of premature infants admitted to NICU.Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was conducted on 64 infants hospitalized in PICU. In the intervention group and the control group of patients, two drops of rose water and distilled water were poured on gas and placed next to the babies' heads, respectively. ALS scale was used to assess the sleep status.Results: Out of 66 infants in this study, 30 were female and 36 were male. The average gestational age of the infants was 32.5 +/- 1.99 weeks. The results showed that the amount of deep sleep (type A and B) in the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group during and after the intervention (p=0.001).Conclusions: Considering the positive impact of rose water in improve of sleep quality in premature babies; it can be used to improve sleeping condition of infants in hospitals, along with main treatment. ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 23 (10) January, 2023; 1-9.