The nurse understands that CAM therapies have common characteristics, such as which of the following? (Select All that Apply)

A. Substance that can inhibit the growth of bacteria:

This definition is incorrect. The term "virulence" does not refer to a substance that inhibits bacterial growth. Instead, it pertains to the ability of a microorganism to cause disease.

B. Permanent, inheritable changes to DNA:

This definition is incorrect. Permanent, inheritable changes to DNA are typically referred to as mutations. While mutations can impact the characteristics of microorganisms, the term "virulence" specifically relates to disease-causing ability rather than genetic changes.

C. When a microbe is no longer affected by a drug following treatment with anti-infectives:

This definition is incorrect. The phenomenon described here is known as drug resistance or antimicrobial resistance. It refers to the ability of microorganisms to survive and multiply in the presence of antimicrobial agents, rendering the drugs ineffective.

D. The severity of disease that an organism is able to cause:

This definition is correct. Virulence refers to the degree or severity of disease that an organism, such as a bacterium or virus, is capable of causing. Microorganisms with high virulence can cause severe illness or death in infected hosts, while those with low virulence may cause milder symptoms or no symptoms at all.

A. Never take with prescription medications:

This statement is not accurate. Many herbal products can interact with prescription medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. However, avoiding taking herbal products with prescription medications altogether may not be practical or necessary in all cases. Instead, it's essential to assess for potential interactions and consult with healthcare professionals.

B. Use only one herbal preparation at a time:

This is the correct approach. Using only one herbal preparation at a time allows for better identification of any allergic reactions or adverse effects. If multiple herbal products are taken simultaneously, it can be challenging to determine which product is causing a particular reaction. Starting with one product also simplifies monitoring for efficacy and safety.

C. Take less than the recommended dose initially:

While starting with a lower dose initially may be a prudent approach for some individuals, it is not necessarily the best way to identify allergic or adverse reactions. Taking less than the recommended dose may not provide a full assessment of the product's effects and may not adequately identify potential adverse reactions.

D. Check with a reputable pharmacist:

Consulting with a reputable pharmacist is essential for obtaining information about herbal products, including potential interactions, side effects, and recommended dosages. While a pharmacist can provide valuable guidance, they may not be present during the initial use of the herbal product to monitor for adverse reactions directly.