Which action is most appropriate for the nurse to take when a patient with a chronic wound voices the preference of taking herbs to boost immunity rather than prescribed antibiotics?
a. Instruct the patient about the rationale for antibiotic use to treat infection.
b. Remind the patient that the infection has not cleared with herbal treatment.
c. Tell the patient that research shows that herbs are not effective in treating infection.
d. Determine how the patient feels about using antibiotics in addition to herbal products.
ANS: D
Further assessment of the patient's feelings about using conventional and natural therapies is needed before further action is taken. The patient may need instruction about antibiotics if further assessment indicates that the patient is receptive to antibiotic use. Pointing out that herbal therapy has not been successful is disrespectful to the patient's belief system. Although herbal therapy alone may not eradicate the infection, some herbal therapies do improve immune function.
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