Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly common in the United States and the rest of the western world
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly common in the United States and the rest of the western world. Most of nursing education in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia—often referred to as Western countries—has been under the umbrella of biomedicine, and thus Western nurses are familiar and comfortable with its beliefs, theories, practices, strengths, and limitations. Fewer nurses have studied alternative medical theories and practices and as a result may lack information or even harbor misinformation about these healing practices. Unlike the profession of medicine in general, however, the profession of nursing has traditionally embraced two basic concepts embodied by alternative therapies—holism and humanism—in its approach with clients. write a 2-3 page paper discussing how nurses can incorporate alternative medicine into a holistic approach to patient care. Please use references within the last 5 years and submit the work in APA format.
Sample Solution
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of healing practices that are not considered part of conventional Western medicine. CAM therapies are often used to complement or enhance conventional medical treatment, or to treat conditions that are not well-managed by conventional medicine.
There is a growing interest in CAM among patients and healthcare providers alike. A 2020 survey found that 38% of adults in the United States reported using CAM in the past year. Nurses are in a unique position to help patients navigate the CAM landscape and to incorporate CAM therapies into a holistic approach to patient care.
Full Answer Section
What is holistic nursing? Holistic nursing is a philosophy of care that focuses on the whole person, rather than just the physical symptoms of illness. Holistic nurses believe that physical, emotional, spiritual, and social factors all contribute to a person's health and well-being. They aim to promote health and healing by addressing all of these factors. How can nurses incorporate alternative medicine into a holistic approach to patient care? There are a number of ways that nurses can incorporate alternative medicine into a holistic approach to patient care. Here are a few examples:- Educate patients about CAM. Nurses can educate patients about the different types of CAM therapies available, as well as the potential benefits and risks of each therapy. This can help patients make informed decisions about whether or not to use CAM therapies.
- Refer patients to qualified CAM practitioners. If a patient is interested in pursuing CAM therapy, nurses can refer them to qualified practitioners. This can help ensure that patients receive safe and effective care.
- Incorporate CAM therapies into nursing practice. Nurses can incorporate CAM therapies into their own practice by offering patients relaxation techniques, such as massage or guided imagery. Nurses can also teach patients about nutrition and lifestyle changes that can promote health and well-being.
- A nurse working in a cancer center can teach patients about the benefits of relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation. These techniques can help patients to manage stress and anxiety, which can improve their quality of life.
- A nurse working in a pain management clinic can refer patients to acupuncturists or massage therapists. These therapies can help to reduce pain and improve function.
- A nurse working in a primary care setting can teach patients about the benefits of a healthy diet and regular exercise. These lifestyle changes can help to prevent chronic diseases and improve overall health and well-being.
- Educate themselves about CAM. Nurses should take the time to learn about the different types of CAM therapies available, as well as the potential benefits and risks of each therapy. This will help nurses to make informed recommendations to patients.
- Stay up-to-date on the research. Nurses should regularly review the research on CAM therapies to stay informed about the latest findings. This will help nurses to provide patients with the most accurate information possible.
- Build relationships with other healthcare providers. Nurses should build relationships with other healthcare providers, such as doctors and physical therapists, to discuss the use of CAM therapies with patients. This can help to reduce resistance to CAM therapies from other healthcare providers.