Question 1

OTC supplements for vitamins and minerals are always sold as vitamin supplements or mineral supplements, never in combination.

Accepted Answer

There are many OTC supplements for vitamins and minerals that are sold in combination, such as multivitamins.

Question 2

Match the following terms with their descriptions below.
-Refers to solutions with the same composite as normal body tissue based on having the same concentration of solutes as found in body tissue

Accepted Answer

Isotonic refers to solutions with the same composite as normal body tissue based on having the same concentration of solutes as found in body tissue.

Question 3

Match the following terms with their descriptions below.
-Any substance with a hydrogen ion that is released in a solution and reacts with metals to form salts; pH below 7

Accepted Answer

An acid is a substance with a hydrogen ion that is released in a solution and reacts with metals to form salts. It also has a pH below 7.

Question 4

Pesticides and heavy metals may be found in herbal products.

Accepted Answer

Herbal products may be contaminated with pesticides and heavy metals due to their cultivation and processing practices. It is important to buy herbal products from reputable sources and to ensure they have been properly tested for contamination.

Question 5

Children taking fluoride drops should eat something immediately after taking the medication so that the fluoride will adhere to the teeth.

Accepted Answer

Children taking fluoride drops should not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after taking the drops to allow them to fully benefit from the fluoride. Eating immediately after taking the medication may decrease its effectiveness.

Question 6

Herbs may be used to treat many of a person's minor complaints without danger of toxicity.

Accepted Answer

While herbs can be used to treat minor complaints, they can still pose risks of toxicity or adverse effects, especially if used improperly or in large amounts.

Question 7

Each culture has a primary medical provider for treating with herbals.

Accepted Answer

Many cultures have traditional herbal medicine systems and practitioners who are considered the primary medical provider for treating with herbals. In Chinese culture, for example, this may be an acupuncturist, herbalist, or traditional Chinese medicine doctor. In Ayurvedic medicine, it may be an Ayurvedic practitioner or Vaidya.  It is worth noting, however, that in some cultures or regions modern Western medicine is the primary medical provider and is used alongside or instead of traditional herbal medicine.

Question 8

The two major problems with herbal treatment are failure to identify allergic responses to herbs and the possibility of a patient foregoing medical diagnosis and treatment to be treated with herbs.

Accepted Answer

Allergic responses to herbs can vary from mild to severe and can even be life-threatening. It is important for patients to disclose any allergies they may have and for healthcare providers to screen for potential allergic reactions before using herbal treatments. Additionally, patients should not forego medical diagnosis and treatment in favor of herbal treatments without consulting with their healthcare provider.

Question 9

Vitamins and minerals should be used with caution in children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Accepted Answer

Children, pregnant women, and the elderly have specific nutritional needs and may have different tolerances for vitamins and minerals, therefore it is important to use caution and consult with a healthcare provider before taking them.

Question 10

Homemade and commercial herbal preparations are essentially the same, and the growth environment for the herb is not important.

Accepted Answer

Homemade and commercial herbal preparations may differ in their ingredients, proportions, and methods of preparation. Additionally, the growth environment of the herb can affect its potency and chemical composition, which can then impact the effectiveness of herbal preparations made from it.

Question 11

Vitamin A is a pregnancy category X medication.

Accepted Answer

Vitamin A is classified as a pregnancy category X medication, which means it is contraindicated in pregnant women as it can cause birth defects and miscarriage.

Question 12

Match the following terms with their descriptions below.
-Any substance that combines with hydrogen to form a salt; pH above 7

Accepted Answer

Alkaline refers to a substance with a pH value above 7, indicating that it is basic or non-acidic. An ion is an atom or molecule that has lost or gained electrons and carries an electric charge. An acid is a substance that donates hydrogen ions and has a pH below 7. An electrolyte is a substance that conducts electrical current when dissolved in water. Isotonic refers to a solution with the same concentration of solutes as the cell it is surrounding.

Question 13

Patients should always inform their physician that they are using herbs.

Accepted Answer

It is important for patients to inform their physician about any herbs or supplements they are taking, as they may interact with prescribed medications or have other potential side effects.

Question 14

Excessive use of minerals may lead to hair loss, changes in blood and blood vessels, and cardiac arrest.

Accepted Answer

Excessive use of minerals can lead to toxic levels in the body, which can have various adverse effects such as hair loss, changes in blood and blood vessels, and potentially even cardiac arrest. It is important to consume minerals in appropriate and balanced amounts to avoid such consequences.

Question 15

Allied health professionals must take careful patient histories to determine whether any type of alternative medicine is being used.

Accepted Answer

Allied health professionals have a responsibility to gather comprehensive information about a patient's health history, including any use of alternative medicine or therapies. This information is important for developing effective treatment plans and preventing potential interactions or adverse effects with conventional treatments.

Question 16

Vitamins and minerals are essential for homeostasis.

Accepted Answer

Vitamins and minerals are important for maintaining balance and health within the body, also known as homeostasis.

Question 17

When a product is labeled "natural," it means that it is "safe."

Accepted Answer

Just because something is labeled "natural" does not necessarily mean it is safe. Many natural substances can be harmful or toxic if ingested or used improperly. Always read labels and do your own research to determine safety.

Question 18

Herbs are called "nature's medicine chest."

Accepted Answer

Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and contain natural compounds that can have therapeutic effects on the human body.

Question 19

All herbs are safe and can be taken with medications without risk of overdosage or toxic reaction between medicines and herbs.

Accepted Answer

Not all herbs are safe to take with medications, and there can be a risk of overdosage or toxic reactions between medicines and herbs. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbs or supplements, especially if already taking prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Question 20

Herbal supplements come from the leaves and stems of plants only so are safe for use because toxic substances are not found in those parts of the plant.

Accepted Answer

Although herbal supplements come from natural plant sources, they can still contain toxic substances and cause harmful interactions with medications. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement.

Quiz 19: Nutritional Supplements and Alternative Medicines