2.4. Ethical Considerations
infection, itchiness, itching, allergic reaction
INFECTION, CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019, ALLERGIC REACTIONS, ALLERGIC REACTION
Before starting the study, approval from the S tertiary general hospital (SMC 2021-10-104-002) was obtained to examine the ethical validity of the research protocol. The subjects were explained the purpose of the study, research methodology, randomization, testing and procedures, compliance details, possible side effects, benefits, participation withdrawal, discontinuation, and privacy in an easy-to-understand manner, and then written consent was obtained from them. The researcher explained that research data are confidential and would be used for research purposes only, and that participation in the study could be withdrawn at any time during the study. They were also told that there was no disadvantage whatsoever. During the study participation period, the subjects were asked not to receive any complementary and alternative therapies other than AA and were educated to consult with the researcher if they faced a situation where they needed to receive other treatment during the study participation. For such purposes, the researcher’s contact information was provided to the subjects. Allergic reactions such as itching may sometimes occur due to AA; therefore, the subjects were also asked to contact the researcher immediately if they experience an allergic reaction below the minimum risk or discomfort. The researcher explained that itchiness around the seed-applied area would subside after removing the patches, and the AA might continue by replacing the paper tape only when the subjects wanted to keep participating in the study.If the homogeneity is examined by assessing the subjects’ medical records on the medication and their symptoms are significantly reduced only in the experimental group throughout the study period without any change in their medication, such a change is considered to be the effect of AA. It is because the reflex points that had nothing to do with the variables used in the study were applied to the control group.All participants were paid for transportation expenses as compensation, and the same AA, that was applied to the experimental group, was provided to the control group as well after the study. Due to COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), the researcher informed the subjects of a possible suspension of the study according to quarantine rules and educated them to follow the quarantine rules to prevent infection. Both the researcher and the subjects thoroughly observed the personal quarantine rules such as hand hygiene and mask wearing during the study.