Use of scented products

[Betty Bridges]

Scented products are problematic for an increasing number of people. Fragrance is a common trigger for asthma, allergies, and respiratory disorders. Given the nature of health care, it is highly likely that patients will be encountered that experience adverse effects from scented products.

Though I never wore perfume to work, it was only after I developed severe respiratory sensitization to a common fragrance chemical did I realize how many products contained fragrance. Often toiletries, laundry products, and other items are highly scented and can be as problematic as perfumes.

I have not worked as a nurse since 1990 because of my severe respiratory response to many scented products. But when I seek medical care, I often encounter nurses and other health care staff that use scented products. If I ever had to be hospitalized I would be in serious trouble.

I am curious as to what policies are in place in hospitals and health care facilities regarding the use of scented products.

I have compiled considerable information regarding health and environmental concerns related to scented products. Much of this information is available at: http://www.fpinva.org

A referenced summary of concerns may be seen at:

http://www.fpinva.org/activist__advocacy.HR1947.involved.ref.htm

[Jenny P]

I have asthma, but have not had many problems with scents til this past year. My daughter is in college now, and when she was home recently, I had a SEVERE reaction. It was to the Fabreze she uses on her clothes and to the dryer sheets she uses at school (we have never used either product here in our home before). Who would have thought that clothing cleaning products would do that?

[mdslabod]

What makes me sick are nurses, secretaries and respiratory

therepists who smoke cigarettes and then procede to talk to me or to take care of patients.

I am sorry but it is worse than any perfume someone could wear to work.

[doularoz]

I agree 100% with mdslabod about the cigarette thing. I don't think smokers realize how much they smell like smoke. It's as bad as someone smoking right beside you. The smell gives me a headach and an upset stomach. I think they should put exhaust fans in all of the smoking areas to cut down on the amount of smoke that lingers on clothing.

[MickeymomRN]

I have worked with other nurses who claim that perfumes and strong lotions set off asthmatic attacks. And guess why they go on breaks often? You guessed it! They smoke,too! Go figure that one out. And they call themselves nurses. One even yelled at me to wash off the lotion that the hospital provides because of the smell. I have problems with my hands breaking out with rashes when they get too dried out. I'm supposed to suffer and place myself at risk because of skin breaks and she gets to dictate who wears what and still go out to inhale on a cancer stick?