Innovation in practice: complementary therapies in nursing

Abstract: The movement towards integrating complementary therapies within nursing has created an exciting challenge. That it has been initiated by members of the profession rather than perceived as an additional task derived from another discipline suggests a critical appraisal of current nursing approaches. The demand by nurses to learn more about therapies and their value within nursing care may suggest a desire to define specific aspects of the therapeutic nursing approach and to set about clarifying the parameters of their practice.In order for this to occur nurses will have to reconsider the nature of their role and of the organisation in which they work. The implementation of complementary therapies represents an innovation in the development of nursing skills. This will not be overcome easily and conflicts associated with the implementation of change will come thick and fast. We are possibly spearheading a unique aspect of nursing care. It is vital we provide conscientious care and not throw caution to the wind.

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