Publication Date

5-1-2002

Degree Program

School of Nursing

Degree Type

Master of Science in Nursing

Abstract

Much information has been published regarding herbal medication use. However, information is limited on how nurses incorporate this information into their practice, communicate information to the client, or collaborate with physicians to prevent drug/herbal interactions. The purpose of this study is to explore the attitudes and knowledge of nurses regarding the use of herbal remedies at various levels of practice. According to Henderson's Theory of Basic Care Components, the nurse has a responsibility to assess client needs, help clients meet health needs, and provide a safe environment for the client to perform activities unaided. These interventions help the client become complete, whole and independent. These skills are blended when teaching about herbal/drug interactions. A convenience sample of RNs and LPNs (n=51) from a southern Kentucky hospital was used in this study. After informed consent was obtained, a researcher developed questionnaire with 15 knowledge-based, multiple choice questions and 10 attitude-based, Likert scaled questions were given. The study was conducted using a preand posttest design with an educational in-service intervention. Sample demographic data revealed 96% to be female, with a mean age of 39.2 years, 53% hold an ADN, 16% a BSN, and 4% a MSN. Average years of experience were nine years. Chi-squared tests showed no significance as a function of age, gender, education, years of experience or area of practice in baseline knowledge. T-tests for related samples revealed a change in mean score from 9.0 on the pre-test to 12.0 on the post-test. (T=8.63) (p=0.001). Further research in this field is needed before generalization can be made. Consumers use herbal medications to reduce health care costs. Knowledge of herbal medications can prevent dangerous interactions with prescription medications.

Disciplines

Alternative and Complementary Medicine | Nursing

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