Alternative Systems of Care
Alternative/ Complimentary Therapies
Nursing Implications
Non-Pharmacologic Therapies
Integrative Therapies
100

This ancient technique uses heated cups placed on the skin with suction, which creates blood flow and improves circulation to the area.

What is cupping?

100

This type of therapy involve the use of herbal remedies dietary supplements and probiotics to support health and wellness. 

What is nutritional therapy?

100

The importance of a nurse knowing what herbal supplements a patient is currently taking

What is to prevent interactions with other medications?

100

Got a sore back? This therapy helps achy muscles, but be cautious if you’re taking an anticoagulant medication as it may cause bruising 

What is massage therapy?

100

This combines conventional western treatments with complementary therapies to treat the whole person: mind, body, and spirit 

What is integrative therapy or integrative health?

200

This traditional medicine was developed in Japan, it’s successfully used in cancer patients with radiation and chemotherapy. 

What is Kampo?

200

This ancient medical system, originating in India, uses a combination of diet, herbs, and lifestyle changes to balance bodily energies (doshas)

What is Ayurveda? 

200

When a nurse teaches a client to use deep breathing, guided imagery, or aromatherapy for pain or anxiety relief, this type of nursing care is being applied.

What is holistic or client-centered care?

200

Smelling peppermint oil can help reduce nausea and vomiting postoperatively, it is this kind of therapy 

What is aromatherapy?

200

Using aloe vera gel to treat a sunburn while also taking an anti-inflammatory medication is an example of this kind of approach 

what is an integrative approach to care? 

300

This Japanese system of healing where a person Ki is directed to improve health and is a form of energy healing 

What is reiki?

300

This therapy uses intentional focus to calm the mind and body while incorporating breathing techniques, It's commonly used to reduce stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. 

What is meditation? 

300

This is the most important action a nurse should take when a client expresses interest in using complementary therapies alongside prescribed treatment.

What is assessing for safety and compatibility with current treatments?

300

This procedure uses long, thin needles to penetrate the skin, these needles stimulate points in the body to improve function 

What is acupuncture?

300

This integrative therapy utilizes gentle touch to influence the energy fields of the body to reduce stress and support overall wellness

What is therapeutic touch?

400

These plant-based treatments, like roots, herbs, and flowers, promote healing and restore balance. This is one of the oldest forms of medicine practiced worldwide 

What is herbal medicine?

400

This practice uses herbal medicine, acupuncture, and movement therapies like Tai Chi to restore harmony in the body 

What is traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)?

400

When caring for clients who use cultural or traditional healing practices, the nurse should take this action to promote trust and effective care.

What is demonstrating cultural competence and respect for beliefs?

400

Used to treat conditions like smoking, weight loss, pain, and headaches by using relaxation and an altered state of consciousness 

What is hypnotherapy?

400

This therapy utilizes breathing techniques, body movement, and meditation to promote healing and relaxation. 

What is Yoga? 

500

This is a theoretical medical practice that says that any substance can produce a disease state  

What is homeopathy?

500

This whole-body approach to medicine emplasizes natural treatment and self-healing, often incorporating herbal remedies lifestyle changes and physical therapies 

What is Naturopathy? 

500

This nursing principle involves using your own awareness and presence as part of the healing process.

What is the therapeutic use of self?

500

This therapy changes negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to mental health issues. 

What is Cognitive Behavioral therapy?

500

Before implementing an integrative therapy like healing touch or acupuncture in the care plan, the nurse must first assess this crucial factor

What is the assessment of the client's preferences, cultural beliefs, and readiness for complementary therapies?