Chapter 32: Complementary, Alternative, and Integrative Therapies Fundamentals of Nursing 11th Edition (Potter & Perry) 50 NCLEX-Style Exam Questions with Detailed Rationales

1. A patient tells the nurse they are using herbal supplements along with prescribed medications. What is the nurse’s best response? A) “You should stop using herbs immediately.” B) “Herbs are safe because they’re natural.” C) “Let’s review what you’re taking to avoid any interactions.” D) “I’ll notify the doctor to discharge you if you use herbs.” Answer: C Rationale: The nurse must assess and educate the patient on possible interactions between herbs and prescribed medications in a nonjudgmental way. ________________________________________ 2. What is the main difference between complementary and alternative therapies? A) Complementary therapies are used instead of traditional medicine. B) Alternative therapies are used along with Western medicine. C) Complementary therapies are used with conventional treatments. D) Complementary therapies are outdated practices. Answer: C Rationale: Complementary therapies are used in conjunction with standard medical care, while alternative therapies replace conventional treatments. ________________________________________ 3. Which therapy involves the use of essential oils to promote healing and well-being? A) Homeopathy B) Aromatherapy C) Reflexology D) Reiki Answer: B Rationale: Aromatherapy uses plant-derived essential oils to enhance physical and emotional well-being. ________________________________________ 4. A nurse practicing integrative care combines which types of interventions? A) Traditional medical and surgical therapies B) All alternative therapies C) Western medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies D) Folk remedies with medications Answer: C Rationale: Integrative health blends conventional and complementary approaches that are evidence-based for optimal patient care. ________________________________________ 5. What is the focus of holistic nursing care? A) Disease management only B) Spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being C) Focusing solely on medical diagnostics D) Providing cure-based treatments only Answer: B Rationale: Holistic nursing care considers all aspects of a patient’s life, not just physical health. ________________________________________ 6. Which patient statement best reflects an understanding of guided imagery? A) “I use scented oils to feel calm.” B) “I picture peaceful scenes to help me relax.” C) “I have a therapist tap parts of my body.” D) “I use herbal teas for sleep.” Answer: B Rationale: Guided imagery involves mental visualization to promote relaxation and healing. ________________________________________ 7. A patient with chronic pain asks about acupuncture. What should the nurse include in the response? A) “Acupuncture has no evidence of benefit.” B) “It involves electrical stimulation of muscles.” C) “Fine needles are inserted into energy pathways to relieve symptoms.” D) “It’s only useful for nausea relief.” Answer: C Rationale: Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific meridian points to restore energy flow and alleviate symptoms. ________________________________________ 8. What is an appropriate use of biofeedback? A) To assess lung sounds B) To promote awareness and control of physiological functions C) To eliminate mental illness D) To substitute for medication Answer: B Rationale: Biofeedback teaches individuals to control physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, muscle tension) using monitoring devices. ________________________________________ 9. Reiki therapy involves which of the following principles? A) Massage of pressure points B) Balancing life energy by laying on hands C) Ingesting natural remedies D) Meditative breathing Answer: B Rationale: Reiki is an energy therapy that uses the laying on of hands to promote balance and healing.