An 85-year-old female patient with dementia who is an inpatient in a facility with geriatric psychiatric services asks the PMHNP if she can have her lavender essential oil to smell when she is agitated. She states that it calms her down. The PMHNP instructs the staff to provide the patient with this oil, which is a type of complementary and alternative therapy known as:

Choice A reason: Biologically based therapies typically involve ingestion of substances, such as vitamins or supplements, not inhalation of scents. Choice B reason: Herbal products and supplements are ingested or applied for therapeutic benefit and do not include essential oils used for inhalation. Choice C reason: Mind-body interventions focus on practices like meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques, rather than sensory stimulation through scent. Choice D reason: Aromatherapy involves using scents, such as essential oils, to improve mood, alleviate agitation, or support relaxation, which aligns with this patient’s use of lavender oil.