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Complementary therapy practice: defining the role of advanced nurse practitioners
Christine Patterson1, Janusz Kaczorowski, Heather Arthur
1School of Nursing, Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. cpatter@mcmaster.ca
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|November 25, 2003
Summary
Advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) are increasingly involved in complementary health therapies, focusing on assessment and counseling. They seek further knowledge on scientific principles and evidence to integrate these practices safely and effectively.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Health
- Advanced Practice Nursing
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
Background:
- The integration of complementary health therapies into mainstream healthcare is growing.
- Understanding the role of advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) in this paradigm is crucial.
- Identifying learning needs will facilitate evidence-based CAM integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the current and perceived clinical roles of ANPs in complementary health.
- To identify ANPs' learning needs and concerns regarding complementary therapies.
- To explore ANPs' referral practices and clinical activities within the complementary health paradigm.
Main Methods:
- A mailed survey was distributed to a random sample of 389 registered ANPs in Ontario.
- A modified Dillman approach was employed to maximize survey response rates.
- Data were collected on referral practices, clinical activities, and learning needs related to six popular complementary therapies.
Main Results:
- A response rate of 55.3% was achieved, with 215 ANPs participating.
- ANPs are actively engaged in complementary therapies, particularly in assessing need and counseling on risks/benefits.
- A significant interest exists in validating complementary therapies and gaining knowledge on their scientific basis and interactions.
Conclusions:
- ANPs are increasingly incorporating complementary therapies into their practice.
- There is a clear demand for enhanced education on the scientific principles, efficacy, and safety of complementary therapies.
- Further research and education are needed to support ANPs in the evidence-based use of complementary health approaches.