Perceptions of professional nurses towards complementary and alternative modalities (CAM) in the uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Globally, the use of alternative therapies by both the public and healthcare workers has escalated. Due to the popularity and frequent use, the need for identifying the perceptions of professional nurses regarding alternative therapies was vital. In South Africa, research on alternative therapies within a nursing context is still in infancy. Empirical work undertaken internationally has led to renewed interest in this topic, which has resulted in its benefits being increasingly documented.A quantitative exploratory research approach was used in this study. A total of 616 questionnaires were distributed across nine participating hospitals, and a 63% of the target population responded. Arrangements were made with the management of each institution with regards to convenient days and times to make contact with the professional nurses. The findings of the study revealed that professional nurses did make use of various forms of alternative therapies. Prayer/spirituality (69%; n = 265), nutritional supplements 59% (n = 207) and music therapy 51% (n = 199) were the most frequently used alternative therapies. About 57.9% (n = 204) of the nurses were satisfied with the information received in nursing education with regards to support groups in nursing care; prayer/spirituality; nutritional supplements; music therapy and massage therapy. The findings further showed that 70.6% (n = 272) thought that alternative therapies were beneficial rather than a threat to patient’s health. Although 66.1% (n = 254) of professional nurses encountered patients who enquired about alternative therapies, only 39.6% (n = 153) expressed confidence in advising patients about these therapies. Keywords: Alternative therapies, Complementary modalities, Homeopathy, Manipulative body based practices, Mind and body medicine