Student Nurses' Use and Perceptions of Alternative Medicine: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

This exploratory study is based on the results of an open-ended questionnaire administered to nursing students to assess their reactions to, use of, attitudes towards, and acceptance of alternative medicine. Acceptance of alternative therapies by nursing students could influence the future use of such therapies within health care. Consistent with the findings of studies with graduate nurses, high usage rates and qualified acceptance of alternative medicine were found among the sample of nursing students. Some reasons for this generally receptive attitude are presented, along with implications for future health-care practices.