Herbal Supplements: Talking With Your Patients
It is important for NPs to be aware of current evidence-based interventions to answer patient questions and concerns honestly, knowledgeably, and safely. Upon assessment, be nonjudgmental and unbiased in attitude about a patient's choice to use supplements. By developing an open rapport, NPs enable patients to feel comfortable sharing information.
Ask your patients if they take any dietary supplements and prompt them for specific amounts and frequency. If you have patients on medication(s) and are uncertain about their interactions with a supplement(s), be sure to do further research or contact your pharmacist. Have patients bring their supplements (bottles, tubes, containers, packaging, etc.) to their visit. Also, make sure to document all information in the patient's record. The following questions should be helpful:
Advise patients to stop taking herbs at least 7 days before any surgery. Avoid taking them altogether if pregnant or nursing. Advise patients to not take herbs and medications together or at the same time. Be alert to possible adverse effects and interactions with lab tests. Check the ingredients carefully for any possible allergens. Advise those patients taking dietary supplements to read and follow the label instructions. Don't exceed recommended dosages or take the herb for longer than recommended. Advise patients to ask any questions, particularly about the best dosage to take.
Recommendations for Practice
It is important for NPs to be aware of current evidence-based interventions to answer patient questions and concerns honestly, knowledgeably, and safely. Upon assessment, be nonjudgmental and unbiased in attitude about a patient's choice to use supplements. By developing an open rapport, NPs enable patients to feel comfortable sharing information.
Ask your patients if they take any dietary supplements and prompt them for specific amounts and frequency. If you have patients on medication(s) and are uncertain about their interactions with a supplement(s), be sure to do further research or contact your pharmacist. Have patients bring their supplements (bottles, tubes, containers, packaging, etc.) to their visit. Also, make sure to document all information in the patient's record. The following questions should be helpful:
Which herbs/supplements are you taking?
Is the product USP verified or does it follow GMP guidelines?
Why are you taking it?
Who recommended you to take it?
When did you start?
Why did you start?
How often and how much are you taking?
Advise patients to stop taking herbs at least 7 days before any surgery. Avoid taking them altogether if pregnant or nursing. Advise patients to not take herbs and medications together or at the same time. Be alert to possible adverse effects and interactions with lab tests. Check the ingredients carefully for any possible allergens. Advise those patients taking dietary supplements to read and follow the label instructions. Don't exceed recommended dosages or take the herb for longer than recommended. Advise patients to ask any questions, particularly about the best dosage to take.
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