Using topical aromatherapy for the management of fungating wounds in a palliative care unit

Providing palliative care to patients with fungating tumours is a major challenge due to the size of the wounds, their location, exudate, bleeding and, perhaps most distressing, odour. The potentially devastating effect of these wounds on the patient’s body image, and their profound impact on sexuality and relationships must also be taken into account, as must their potential to cause emotional distress that can lead to depression.