Keywords

Alternative and complementary therapy, Herbal therapy, Family communication, Vitamins and minerals

 

Authors

  1. Ihlenfeld, Janet T. PhD, RN

Abstract

Nurses in intensive care units may be asked by family members to administer herbal therapies or vitamins and minerals that the patient was taking before the illness or injury. The nurse must carefully assess the request and contact the patient's healthcare providers to determine whether the request can be granted or whether the therapy poses a danger to the patient because of interactions with other medications.