There is still some confusion about Complementary and Alternative therapies. ‘Complementary therapies’ is often used to describe treatments used alongside, or integrated with, evidence-based conventional medical treatments, whereas ‘alternative therapies’ are used instead of, or independently of medical treatments.

Review Collection Complementary Therapies Clinical Practice Complementary Therapies PubMed Searches Complementary Therapies

Many patients and families will use complementary therapies or may want further information on them. It is also important that patients are well informed about any complementary or alternative therapies that they are currently using or are considering.

Many nurses are increasing their awareness and involvement in these areas. CareSearch has brought together information and resources on Complementary Therapies that would be of interest to nurses.This may include providing complementary therapies or being asked to administer some therapies or medications.    

• NHS Evidence website – Palliative & Supportive Care (UK) has information on Complementary therapies
• Links to websites where further information is available include:
  • Bandolier website 
  • Quackwatch website

• Antigoni F, Dimitrios T. Nurses’ attitudes towards complementary therapies. Health Science Journal. 2009 Jul-Sep;3(3):149-57.

This page was created on 27 August 2010
Last updated 27 August 2010