A client who prefers to use St. John's wort and psychotherapy in lieu of antidepressant therapy asks for tips on using herbal remedies. Which of the following teaching points should a nurse provide? (Select all that apply.)

Question

1. Select a reputable brand.
2. Increasing dosage does not lead to improved effectiveness.
3. Monitor for adverse reactions.
4. Gradually increase dosage to gain maximum effect.
5. Most herbal remedies are best absorbed on an empty stomach.

Answer 1

1, 2, 3
Rationale: When educating a client on the use of herbal remedies, the nurse should advise the client to select a reputable brand. The nurse should also advise the client to monitor for adverse reactions and to take the recommended dose, because increasing the dose does not lead to improved effectiveness. Herbal remedies are classified as dietary supplements by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and, therefore, they are not subject to FDA approval and lack uniform standards of quality control.