Posted: September 4th, 2023

Define complementary and alternative medicine

Define complementary and alternative medicine. Choose one example of complementary and alternative medicine. Describe the nurse practioner’s role in utilizing your chosen complementary and alternative medicine. Support your answer with evidence-based research.
Expectations
Length: A minimum of 280 words, not including references
Citations: At least two high-level scholarly reference in APA from within the last 5 years

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Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) refers to a diverse set of healthcare practices, systems, and products that are not considered part of conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is used alongside conventional medical treatments, while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional treatments. CAM approaches emphasize a holistic and patient-centered approach, focusing on the individual’s overall well-being rather than just the symptoms or disease. These practices often involve natural therapies, mind-body techniques, and herbal remedies.

One example of CAM is acupuncture. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is based on the concept of balancing the body’s energy flow or Qi. Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat various conditions, including chronic pain, migraines, and anxiety.

Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a vital role in utilizing acupuncture as a complementary and alternative therapy. NPs, as advanced practice registered nurses, have the expertise and knowledge to integrate CAM practices into their patient care. They can assess patients’ health conditions, identify appropriate candidates for acupuncture, and provide acupuncture treatment or refer patients to licensed acupuncturists.

Research supports the role of NPs in utilizing acupuncture. A study published in Pain Management Nursing in 2018 examined the integration of acupuncture into NP practice. The findings revealed that NPs who were trained in acupuncture provided significant pain relief to patients with chronic pain, reducing the reliance on pharmacological interventions. Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2019 demonstrated that NPs integrating acupuncture in their practice improved patient outcomes, including pain reduction and improved quality of life.

NPs’ utilization of acupuncture as a complementary therapy aligns with the principles of holistic care and patient-centeredness. They consider the patient’s preferences, beliefs, and values when incorporating acupuncture into their treatment plans. By integrating acupuncture, NPs provide additional options for managing pain and enhancing well-being, promoting a comprehensive approach to healthcare.

In conclusion, complementary and alternative medicine encompasses various healthcare practices that are used alongside or in place of conventional medicine. Acupuncture is one example of CAM, and nurse practitioners play a crucial role in utilizing it. Through their expertise, NPs can assess patients, provide acupuncture treatment, and enhance patient outcomes. Evidence-based research supports the integration of acupuncture by NPs, highlighting the potential benefits of this complementary therapy in improving patient care.

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