Complementary Therapies

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

• therapeutic modalities or activities which augment orthodox approaches
• known as alternative therapies

Question 2

Principals of Complementary Therapy

Answer 2

• human body-mind can promote healing
• energy is crucial to the body to repair itself
• whole person treatment - physical, personal, social and environmental factors
• therapies should not cause harm but be supportive

Question 3

Classification of Complementary Therapies

Answer 3

• herbal medicine - phytotherapy
• mind and body - aromatherapy, biofeedback, imagery, hypnotherapy
• manipulative and physical therapies - massage, hydrotherapy, acupressure, reflexology
• energy medicine - reiki
• alternative medicine - homeopathy, naturopathy, acupuncture

Question 4

Issues in Complementary Therapies

Answer 4

• need to collaborate with other health professionals
• need to ensure herbal medicines do not interact with regular medications or have serious side effects on their own
• is challenging in traditional health care structures
• ensure legal and ethical responsibilities are met
• ensure professional competency where complementary therapists are chosen
• need for ongoing education and research relating to the use of complementary therapies in nursing and midwifery practice