Title: The Use of Herbs in Rural Primary Care Clinics and Their Potential Interactions with Prescribed and Over the Counter Medications
The purpose of this study was address these research questions: (1) What is the prevalence of the use of herbs by clients attending rural primary care clinics? and (2) What are the potential interactions between herbs and over the counter or prescribed medications? The theoretical framework, based on Pender’s work, examined relationships among clients, health behaviors, and the environment. Health professionals are part of the interpersonal environment exerting influence on persons throughout the lifespan.
Methodology. The descriptive design involved a non-probability sample of 150 subjects enrolled in three rural southern clinics. Inclusion criteria were: volunteer male and female subjects above 18 years of age who spoke English and had regular clinic appointments. IRB approval was obtained. At the study’s conclusion, the names of participants taking herbs that had potential interactions with prescribed or OTC medications were given to their respective health providers. The interview tool, developed by Marcy and Brown, elicited data on the use of herbs.
Findings: The sample of 150 subjects ranged in age from 18-91. Seventy one percent (n=106) were female, while 29 percent (n=44) were male. Thirty two percent (n=48) were African American, 65% (n=97) were Caucasian, 1% (n=1) was Native American and 3% (n=4) were Hispanic. Data analysis revealed that 59% (n=89) of the 150 study participants used herbs. Of those who used herbs, 92% (n=82) used herbs concurrently with prescribed or OTC medications. Forty four percent (n=36) of these subjects were using herbs concurrently with medications with which they had the potential to interact.
Conclusions: Health providers were not aware that their clients were using herbs. Health providers need to elicit data concerning the use of herbs by clients. In functioning as community educators, nurse practitioners can increase public awareness of potential interactions between herbs and prescribed and/or OTC medications.
Session #1179 - Community Health
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)