Complementary and alternative therapies in occupational health. Part II--Specific therapies.

Dossey (2001) says, "The nurse serves as a facilitator and helps assist the patient and his or her significant others to be in the best state for healing to take place. Nurses are in a unique position to be instruments of healing at all times." According to Fitch (1999), "A fundamental goal of nursing is to comfort." Complementary and alternative therapies offer many self care and comforting remedies help employees prevent disease and promote healing. Occupational health nurses have the ability to educate employees and offer guidance about CAM therapies; encourage self care management of minor complaints; and encourage employees, when appropriate, to seek health care. As employees' use of CAM continues to increase, occupational health nurses need to monitor use of CAM therapies among employees. Nurses should inform the employer, case managers, and insurance companies involved about the potential increase in CAM use to promote changes in the health care system and integrate conventional and CAM therapies as needed. Further research related to CAM therapies continues as the health care system warrants safe, effective, and cost effective ways to promote health and prevent or manage illness.