Question 1

Herbs and plants can be useful in treating a variety of conditions. Which herbal treatment should a nurse determine as appropriate for a client experiencing frequent migraine headaches?

Accepted Answer

Feverfew has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches when used according to directions. Saint John's wort is commonly used to treat depression and has not been proven effective for migraines. Ginger root may have some benefit for migraines, but there is no evidence to support the efficacy of combining it with a beta-blocker. Kava-kava has potential liver toxicity and is not indicated for the treatment of migraines.

Question 2

A client asks a nurse to explain the difference between complementary and alternative medicine. Which is an appropriate nursing reply?

Accepted Answer

Complementary therapies are used in partnership with traditional medical practice, while alternative medicine is used in place of traditional medical practice. It is important to note that both complementary and alternative medicine should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of, traditional medical care.

Question 3

A client is exhibiting short-term memory loss and has a slow capillary refill. Which herbal remedy would address this client's symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Ginkgo has been shown to improve circulation and cognitive function, including memory. Slow capillary refill is a sign of poor circulation, which can contribute to short-term memory loss. Fennel, passion flower, and black cohosh do not have effects specifically related to memory or circulation.

Question 4

Which of the following nursing statements best explains to the client the benefits of pet therapy? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following nursing statements best...

Question 5

A client reports taking St. John's wort for depression. The client states, "I'm taking the recommended dose, but it seems like if two capsules are good, four would be better!" Which is an appropriate nursing reply?

Accepted Answer

Increasing the amount of herbal preparations can lead to overdose and toxicity. It is important to educate the client that just because a substance is natural or an herbal remedy, it does not mean that it is free from potential harm. In fact, many herbal remedies can interact with prescription medications and may cause adverse reactions or toxicity if taken in excess.

Question 6

A lethargic client is diagnosed with major depressive disorder. After taking antidepressant therapy for 6 weeks, the symptoms have not resolved. Which nutritional deficiency should a nurse identify as potentially contributing to the client's symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency can contribute to fatigue and lethargy, which are symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Question 7

A nurse understands that when a practitioner corrects subluxation by manipulating the vertebrae of the spinal column the practitioner is employing which therapy?

Accepted Answer

Correcting subluxation by manipulating the vertebrae of the spinal column is a technique used in chiropractic therapy.

Question 8

A client diagnosed with chronic migraine headaches is considering acupuncture. The client asks a clinic nurse, "How does this treatment work?" Which is the best response by the nurse?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are pain-fighting chemicals produced by the body. This explanation is consistent with the current understanding of acupuncture in Western medicine.

Question 9

A client with chronic lower back pain states, "My nurse practitioner told me that acupuncture may enhance the effect of the medications and physical therapy prescribed." What type of therapy is the nurse practitioner recommending?

Accepted Answer

The nurse practitioner is recommending complementary therapy, which is a non-mainstream practice used in addition to conventional medicine. Acupuncture is a common complementary therapy used for pain management. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, is a type of conventional therapy, and biopsychosocial therapy is a holistic approach that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in treatment. Alternative therapy refers to practices used instead of conventional medicine.

Question 10

A client inquires about the practice of therapeutic touch. Which nursing reply best explains the goal of this therapy?

Accepted Answer

Therapeutic touch aims to re-pattern the body's energy field through the use of rhythmic hand motions, promoting healing and relaxation.

Question 11

A client has been taking 1,200 mg/day of St. John's wort during the past year for symptoms of depression. Recently, the client complains of side effects from this herbal remedy. What symptom should the nurse expect the client to report?

Accepted Answer

Photosensitivity is a known side effect of St. John's wort, which can cause sensitivity to sunlight and increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Insomnia, hirsutism, and restlessness are not commonly reported side effects of St. John's wort.

Question 12

A client who prefers to use St. John's wort and psychotherapy in lieu of antidepressant therapy asks for tips on using herbal remedies. Which teaching points should a nurse provide? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

St. John's wort should be purchased from a reputable brand to ensure quality. Increasing the dosage does not necessarily improve effectiveness and can increase the risk of side effects. Monitoring for adverse reactions is important as herbal remedies can have side effects and interactions with other medications.

Question 13

Which of the following practices should a nurse describe to a client as being incorporated during yoga therapy? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

Deep breathing, balanced body postures, and meditation are all commonly incorporated practices in yoga therapy. Meridian therapy and massage therapy are not typically part of yoga therapy.

Question 14

A nursing student having no knowledge of alternative treatments states, "Aren't these therapies 'bogus' and, like a fad, will eventually fade away?" Which is an accurate nursing reply?

Accepted Answer

Complementary therapies, like nursing, take a holistic approach to healing, focusing on the whole person rather than just symptoms.

Question 15

A nursing instructor is teaching about complementary therapies. Which student statement indicates that learning has occurred?

Accepted Answer

This statement accurately reflects the holistic approach of complementary therapies, which view individuals as a combination of physical, emotional, and spiritual elements rather than simply treating physical symptoms or diseases.

Quiz 22: Complementary Therapies