Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
When taking a medication history on a patient, why should the nurse ask about the use of complementary or alternative therapies?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B because it is essential for the nurse to ask about the use of complementary or alternative therapies to identify potential interactions that can cause serious problems when combined with prescribed medications. Many herbs, supplements, or alternative therapies can interact with medications, leading to reduced effectiveness or adverse effects. By understanding the patient's use of alternative therapies, the nurse can prevent harmful interactions and ensure the patient's safety. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the potential risks associated with drug-alternative therapy interactions. Choice A focuses on compliance, while choice C assumes natural products are always more effective and choice D is about cost, but none of these directly address the primary concern of potential interactions.