A patient tells the nurse, "I prefer to treat my physical problems with herbs and vitamins. They are natural substances, and natural products are safe." Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Question

a. "Natural substances tend to be safer than conventional medical remedies."
b. "Natural remedies give you the idea that you are controlling your treatment."
c. "The word natural can be a marketing term used to imply a product is healthy, but that's not always true."
d. "You should not treat your own physical problems. You should see your health care provider for these problems."

Answer 1

ANS: C
CAM remedies are usually natural substances, but it is a fallacy that products labeled natural are safer than conventional medicines. Some natural products contain powerful ingredients that can cause illness and damage to the body if taken inappropriately and, for some persons, can be dangerous even when used as directed. This is the most important message for the nurse to convey to the patient. So-called natural substances can have a number have significant side effects. Natural substances may give one the belief that he is controlling his own treatment, but that is not the message that most needs to be communicated here. Many patients can safely self-manage minor physical problems.