Author Question: The patient is pregnant and asks the nurse about changing from her prescription antidepressant ... (Read 36 times)

Tirant22 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The patient is pregnant and asks the nurse about changing from her prescription antidepressant medication to St. John's wort because it is natural. What is the best response by the nurse?

1. It should be okay because your baby has been exposed to an antidepressant.
2. St. John's wort is a drug, and this should be discussed with your doctor.
3. No, herbal preparations are just not safe to take during pregnancy.
4. Yes, you can change, but let your doctor know at your next appointment.

Question 2

Which statement best describes the relationship of complementary and alternative therapies to pharmacology?

1. They are more effective than medication use.
2. They can reduce patient medication needs.
3. They serve as competitors, and should not be promoted.
4. They have little-to-no value in disease prevention and treatment.

Madisongo23 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: All herbal preparations are drugs and their use should be discussed with the physician when a patient is pregnant. St. John's wort is not okay because the baby has not been exposed to it specifically. It is not safe to tell a pregnant woman she can change antidepressants. Some herbal preparations may be safe during pregnancy, but this should be discussed between the patient and physician.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Complementary and alternative therapies can reduce patient medication needs and therefore lower the risk of adverse effects. They are not generally more effective than medications, but do have value in disease prevention and treatment. Both complementary/alternative therapies and pharmacology should be used together to provide holistic patient care.