The nurse is asked why neomycin is given as a bowel prep before GI surgery. The nurse correctly replies that:

1. Do not have to demonstrate effectiveness:

This statement is generally true under DSHEA regulations. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, dietary supplements are not required to undergo rigorous testing to demonstrate their effectiveness in treating, preventing, or curing specific health conditions before they are marketed. However, manufacturers are prohibited from making unsubstantiated claims about the effectiveness of their products.

B. Are determined to be safe before being placed on the market:

Under DSHEA regulations, dietary supplement manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products before they are marketed. However, unlike pharmaceutical drugs, dietary supplements do not undergo premarket approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to verify their safety and efficacy. Instead, manufacturers are required to notify the FDA of their intent to market a new dietary ingredient (NDI) and provide evidence of the ingredient’s safety.

C. Are checked for label accuracy:

The FDA regulates dietary supplements to ensure that their labels are accurate and truthful. However, the extent of label accuracy checking varies, and the FDA does not routinely test every dietary supplement product on the market. Instead, the FDA relies on postmarket surveillance, consumer complaints, and other mechanisms to identify and address inaccuracies or violations of labeling regulations.

D. Are tested prior to marketing:

Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, dietary supplements are not required to undergo premarket testing to demonstrate their safety or efficacy before they are marketed. While manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products, there is no formal premarket testing requirement under DSHEA regulations.

A. Prayer:

Prayer is a spiritual practice that involves communicating with a higher power or deity. It has been used for centuries across various cultures and religions as a means of seeking guidance, comfort, and healing. While the direct physical effects of prayer on the body may not be well understood, many people find that prayer can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being. Additionally, some research suggests that prayer may have positive effects on mental health and overall quality of life.

B. Meditation:

Meditation is a practice that involves focusing the mind and cultivating awareness, often through techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or guided imagery. It has been practiced for centuries in Eastern traditions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as in other cultures around the world. Meditation is known for its ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. It has also been associated with numerous physical health benefits, including lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and better sleep.

C. Ointments with a steroid base:

Ointments with a steroid base are not typically considered CAM therapies. Instead, they are a form of conventional medical treatment commonly used to reduce inflammation and treat various skin conditions. These ointments contain corticosteroids, which are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They work by suppressing the body's immune response and reducing inflammation in the affected area. While steroid-based ointments can be effective for treating certain skin conditions, they are not part of traditional CAM practices.

D. Massage:

Massage therapy involves manipulating the body's soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and improve circulation. It has been practiced for centuries in cultures around the world and is commonly used to alleviate stress, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Massage therapy encompasses various techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and aromatherapy massage, each with its own benefits and applications. Research has shown that massage therapy can have numerous physical and mental health benefits, including reduced anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced immune function.