Complementary/Alternative Therapies in Nursing

...the editors have made wise choices in expanded content and new topics for this text. It is a must have book particularly for novices beginning their journey into CAM use and practice in nursing." (4 Stars)--Doody's Book Review Service

As the consumer demand for and use of complementary therapies continues to increase, it is critical to have knowledge about complementary therapies for professional nursing practice: to provide your patients with information about therapies, to be informed about research and practice guidelines related to complementary therapies, to alert your patients to possible contraindications with traditional medicines, and to incorporate some of these therapies into your own self-care.

Now in its fifth edition, Complementary/Alternative Therapies in Nursing continues to provide the scientific basis for the use of therapies with an emphasis on evidence-based practice. A new chapter dedicated solely to research has been added to this edition, and the studies related to each therapy continue to be included in each chapter.

• A description of the therapy
• Scientific basis for use of the therapy
• Inclusion of one or two techniques that can be used to implement the therapy
• Conditions and patient populations in which the therapy has been used
• Suggestions for research

Precautions to be aware of when using a therapy are noted in the intervention section.

Mariah Snyder, PhD, is professor emerita, University of Minnesota School of Nursing. Independent nursing interventions and complementary therapies have been the focus of her career. Dr. Snyder studied the effects of complementary therapies in promoting the health and well-being of elders, particularly those with dementia. She was a founding member of the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota and instrumental in the establishment of the Center's graduate interdisciplinary minor. In retirement, she continues to incorporate complementary therapies in her volunteer activities with women in recovery programs, elders, and in her personal wellness.

Ruth Lindquist, PhD, RN is Professor Emeritus of Nursing and Graduate Faculty member of the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota. She is a member of the University of Minnesota Academy of Distinguished Teachers and the Academic Health Center Academy of Excellence in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. In her practice and research, Dr. Lindquist uses evidence-based complementary therapies and behavioral strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and promote health-related quality of life. She cofounded an innovative women's only cardiac support group to enhance self-care and transform lifestyles to reduce heart disease risks. As a Densford Scholar in the Katherine J. Densford International Center for Nursing Leadership, she worked with her team to conduct a landmark national survey of critical care nurses' attitudes toward and use of complementary therapies. Complementary therapies have been the core of her care, research, and scholarship for 40 years including co-editing this text, now in its 9th edition.