Summary Of All Of Us Come Into A Particular Course
Summary Assignmentall Of Us Come Into A Particular Course With Certain
All of us come into a particular course with certain perceptions and views regarding the central topics covered. The purpose of this discussion is to examine the change if any in our perceptions of Complementary and Alternative Methods in Nursing. We would like to hear your perspectives. Have your perceptions and views changed based on what you learned? If you had to choose one thing of the many topics covered in this course which did you think was most interesting?
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Entering this course, my perceptions of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in nursing were somewhat limited and influenced mainly by common stereotypes that often associate CAM with unscientific or unproven methods. I believed that traditional Western medicine was the primary approach for patient care, while alternative methods were supplementary and sometimes lacking rigorous scientific validation. My understanding was that CAM was more aligned with holistic healing practices rooted in ancient traditions rather than evidence-based medicine. However, through the coursework, my perceptions have shifted significantly, and I now recognize the valuable role CAM can play within integrated healthcare models.
The most transformative aspect of this course has been learning about the scientific basis and clinical efficacy of certain CAM modalities. For example, I gained a deeper appreciation for acupuncture, which has been supported by numerous studies indicating its effectiveness in managing chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis and migraines (Vickers et al., 2018). This challenged my previous skepticism about the validity of such practices. Additionally, learning about the use of herbal medicine and nutritional therapy highlighted the importance of a holistic approach that considers patient preferences, cultural backgrounds, and natural therapies alongside conventional treatments. This broadened my understanding of patient-centered care and the necessity of respecting individual choices in health management.
Moreover, I became more aware of the regulatory challenges and quality control issues associated with CAM. The lack of standardization and rigorous testing in some alternative therapies can pose safety concerns. This knowledge underscored the importance of integrating CAM practices supported by scientific research and regulated by appropriate bodies to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy (World Health Organization, 2019). As a future nurse, I now see myself as a facilitator who can guide patients in making informed choices about CAM, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice while respecting personal values and cultural beliefs.
One of the most interesting topics covered in the course was the use of mind-body interventions such as meditation and yoga. These practices have gained popularity not only for their physical benefits but also for their positive impact on mental health. Research indicates that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) can significantly reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in various patient populations (Hölzel et al., 2017). I found this particularly compelling because it aligns with holistic nursing principles that emphasize the interconnectedness of mind and body. Implementing such approaches in clinical settings could enhance patient outcomes by promoting relaxation, improving sleep, and reducing stress, which are critical components of comprehensive care.
In conclusion, my perceptions of CAM have evolved from skepticism to a more open and appreciative stance. I now understand that when supported by scientific evidence and proper regulation, CAM can be a valuable adjunct to conventional nursing practices. The course has reinforced the importance of maintaining an open mind, respecting patient preferences, and continuously seeking evidence to support integrative health approaches. As I move forward in my nursing career, I intend to incorporate this broader perspective to provide holistic, patient-centered care that embraces both traditional and complementary modalities.
References
- Hölzel, B. K., Lazar, S. W., Gard, T., Schuman-Olivier, Z., Vago, D. R., & Ott, U. (2017). How Does Mindfulness Meditation Work? Proposing Mechanisms of Action From a Clinical Perspective. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 12(6), 770–791.
- Vickers, A. J., Linde, K., & Berman, B. M. (2018). Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Updated Systematic Review. Journal of Pain, 19(5), 451–455.
- World Health Organization. (2019). WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014–2023. Geneva: WHO.
- Briggs, M., & Clissett, P. (2020). Integrating Complementary and Traditional Medicine: An Emerging Approach in Nursing. Nursing Management, 27(2), 15–21.
- Ni, H., & Huang, C. (2021). Herbal Medicine and Its Role in Modern Nursing Practice. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 19(4), 287–293.
- Sherman, K. J., & Cheung, A. (2019). The Evidence Base for Complementary Therapies. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 28(7-8), 1230–1240.
- Huang, C., & Kuo, T. (2022). Mind-Body Medicine and Symptom Management in Oncology Patients. Oncology Nursing Forum, 49(3), 274–283.
- WHO Guidlines on Basic Training and Safety in Complementary and Alternative Medicine. (2019). Geneva: WHO.
- Lee, M., & Lee, C. (2020). Regulatory Perspectives on Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Regulatory Affairs Journal, 5(2), 114–122.
- Gibson, J., & Johnson, D. (2018). Integrating CAM Into Conventional Healthcare: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of Holistic Nursing, 36(4), 273–282.