Generally speaking, preoperative anxiety occurs in over 50% of patients undergoing surgery or a procedure. This can lead to worrying, nervousness, and sleep problems before the procedure, and also nausea, anxiety and agitation while coming out of anaesthesia. Anxiety and stress can lead to vasoconstriction (complicating IV administration), tachycardia, fluctuating blood pressure, a greater need for anaesthetics and pain medication, changes in behaviour and a prolonged hospital stay.
Educating and informing patients on what to expect is of key importance. 
Evidence and experience show that complementary therapies before and during surgery can offer valuable additional support. A variety of touch techniques and being nearby, foot soaks, guided imagery and music are mentioned as well as aromatherapy. 
Working with aromatherapy and its fragrant oils through various routes of administration can help reduce stress and anxiety, agitation and sleep issues. Especially citrus oils such as Neroli, Sweet Orange and Bergamot,  as well as Lavender, Frankincense, Spikenard and Vetiver are studied on relevant properties with excellent results. In this session the author will elaborate on simple yet effective and safe possible interventions before and during surgery for reduced anxiety and greater wellbeing and recovery after surgery.

Complementary therapies can offer support in the management of preoperative anxiety