IntroductionMany nursing practioners are increasingly
considering
complementary therapies. Many of these complementary
therapies have ancient origins, and share a common philosophy based on
the concept of energy, which governs the whole body and enables the
body systems to operate. Therapies, which work on this principle of
energy or life force, include, reflexology, acupuncture, acupressure,
therapeutic touch, meridian massage, chiropractic and homeopathy. Specific innovative approachesTherapeutic
touch (TT), is one innovative CAM approach, and is proposed as an
adjunct to pharmacological intervention. Therapeutic touch is a
non-invasive, holistic practice that promotes comfort, relaxation,
stress reduction and heating. Clinical studies suggest that TT prolongs
the interval between analgesics. Since many recent publications have
questioned the efficacy of therapeutic touch (TT), a study was
performed to document the physiologic and psychodynamic responses
during and following the administration of TT. Significant correlations
of psychodynamic responses were demonstrated, and it was concluded that
it is possible for critically ill patients to experience periods of
relaxation and sleep in an otherwise stressful environment, and that TT
enhances relaxation and sleep in such patients. Data
from a continuous quality improvement (CQI) clinical study, which is
the largest published sample size of therapeutic touch (TT) to date,
suggests, TT, when provided in the clinical setting, promotes comfort,
calmness, and well-being among hospitalized patients. The patients were
also reportedly highly satisfied with TT. In order to evaluate the TT
program, the Patient Satisfaction Survey and TT Performance Improvement
Tool was developed.Research Utilization Implications Many
of the characteristics of such
complementary therapies make it
difficult or impossible to conduct randomized controlled trials.
Practitioners have variable approaches with customized
treatments,
treatment combinations and outcomes, which is difficult to measure.The
majority of nurse practioners recommended complementary alternative
treatments to their patients and were enthusiastic in the use of such
treatments for their patients. But there is still lack of formal
recognition and integration of these therapies in their training. As
evidence about complementary medicine is gradually accumulating, it
requires the incorporation of evidence-based practice. Being open to
new ways improves and enhances health care. Still, it is necessary that
all new trends, practices or theories, be subjected to a careful
analysis and evaluation.