Oftentimes, people associate that harsh antiseptic smell with bad memories they had at health facilities such as hospitals, doctors’ and dentists’ offices. Awareness of the effects and benefits of pleasant scenting in health care environments is becoming more prominent nowadays. Due to bad associations and memories people usually have, it makes them therefore anxious and worried to return to these healthcare facilities.
Hospitals, walk-in clinics and other healthcare related properties should create more relaxing environment for patients and make sure they feel comfortable and at ease.
Most essential oils are high in antibacterial and antiviral properties. Oils that are best for hospital environment are: lemon, grapefruit, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and rosemary.
In addition to eliminating the so-called ‘hospital smell phobia’, scenting in health facilities may have even more benefits:
Benefits of Scenting Health Facilities
- Scenting is intended to make hospitals less intimidating and more welcoming thereby ensuring more return patients
- Proper use of aroma and essential oils may improve customer experience at dentist’s office and remove negative feelings and unpleasant dental experiences humans usually have
- Diffusion of anti-bacterial and anti-viral scent products into air in healthcare facilities will help stop germs spreading and reduce the risks of infections by air-borne bacteria
- Aroma scenting leaves a positive effect on patient perceptions of quality of service, cleanliness in a particular healthcare facility