Definitions
What is one reason patients turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)?
To treat conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and arthritis that are difficult to manage with conventional medicine.
Name one nursing-accessible therapy.
Relaxation therapy, meditation and breathing, or imagery.
What are the benefits of meditation and breathing?
Reduced anxiety and stress.
What does holistic nursing focus on?
Treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of illness.
Why are natural products and herbal therapies not always reliable?
They are not regulated by the FDA.
What are the most common complementary approaches identified by the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)?
Natural products, deep breathing, yoga, chiropractic manipulation, and meditation.
Which therapies require specialized training?
Therapeutic touch, acupuncture, and biofeedback.
How does acupuncture influence the body?
By inserting needles into acupoints to influence energy flow (qi) along meridians.
Why must nurses understand the evidence behind various therapies?
To align care with patient beliefs and preferences.
What must nurses consider when recommending animal-assisted therapy?
Allergies, phobias, and the patient’s immunocompromised status.
What does "complementary therapy" mean?
A non-mainstream practice used together with conventional medicine.
What is the goal of relaxation therapy?
To reduce the stress response and promote relaxation.
What is a contraindication for acupuncture?
Bleeding disorders or skin infections
What is one important aspect of patient education in holistic nursing?
Educating patients about potential side effects and interactions of therapies with other medications.
What are two factors to evaluate when choosing a CAM therapy?
History and outcomes of the therapy or safety data.
What is the difference between alternative and integrative therapies?
Alternative replaces conventional medicine, while integrative combines conventional and complementary approaches.
How does imagery help patients?
It uses mental images to stimulate physical changes and improve well-being.
What does animal-assisted therapy (AAT) help improve?
Pain control, motor skills, and cognitive effects.
How does holistic care benefit patients?
It addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, leading to more personalized care.
Why is patient adherence critical in biofeedback therapy?
Because its effectiveness depends on consistent practice and engagement.
What does holistic care focus on?
The connection of the body, mind, and spirit.
What is biofeedback, and what does it treat?
A mind-body technique that uses electronic feedback to teach self-control over physiological responses; it treats chronic pain and anxiety.
What should patients consider when choosing natural products or herbal therapies?
Look for products from reliable manufacturers with the USP Verified Dietary Supplement mark.
What is essential before using CAM therapies with patients?
Ensuring informed consent and understanding cultural influences.
What should nurses always ensure when using CAM in patient care?
Safety, informed consent, and alignment with cultural and personal preferences.