Traditional Chinese medicine in orthopaedic nursing

Increasing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by the American public warrants an examination of its role in all of nursing. Many people seeking alternative treatments do so out of frustration with the inability of Western medicine to help with chronic illnesses. Thus, Western practitioners need a basic understanding of these alternative modalities to help their clients make informed choices about their health care. This article describes the underlying theory of TCM, assessments, diagnostics, and treatments found in TCM, as well as uses of TCM in orthopaedic nursing. Also included are research considerations as well as precautions in the use of TCM.