Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Occupational Health

Abstract

Primary tenet of nursing is the promotion of informed, effective self care" (Lowe, 1999). Many complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies promote self care, such as relaxation techniques, aromatherapy, massage, herbal supplements, and homeopathic remedies that can be purchased over the counter by employees. Occupational health nurses need to be open and unbiased about the use of CAM therapies among employees, but also must have the knowledge to inform and educate employees about the appropriate use of CAM therapies and the importance of when to seek health care (see Appendix on page 475 for additional resources). This article, the second in a two part series (Part I appeared in Vol. 50, No.9, pp. 418-425), outlines a variety of CAM therapies for common illnesses and injuries encountered in the workplace. ANXIETY AND STRESS Anxiety is defined as "the distressing experience of dread, foreboding, or panic, accompanied by a variety of autonomic-primarily sympathetic-bodily symptoms" (Goroll, 1995). Symptoms of anxiety may include an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, chest pains, inability to take a deep breath, headache, and tense muscles. Tense muscles often are located in the shoulders, neck, and back (Bratman, 2000; Pettinati, 2001). The

Holistic Self Care: Strategies for Initiating a Personal Assessment

“…The nurse can then reflect on this personal assessment and add modalities or other useful strategies to meet identified needs. Articles by Bascom (2002aBascom ( , 2002b in the AAOHN Journal provide a description of complementary and alternative therapies.…”