Holistic nursing practice
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Holistic nursing practice · May 2007
ReviewPostherpetic neuralgia in older adults: culture, quality of life, and the use of alternative/complementary therapies.
The purpose of this article is to describe current knowledge and standards of care for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) among older persons. Three influencing factors are considered: cultural implications, quality of life (QOL), and current practice of alternative/complementary therapy. A review of literature published between 2001 and 2006 was conducted. ⋯ However, due to lack of controlled trials and insufficient evidence, alternative therapy is not currently used widely and recommended. As the US population ages, the incidence of herpes zoster and PHN is expected to rise. Clinical trials that explore the response of the culturally diverse older adults to current treatment guidelines, strategies for prevention of PHN and its corresponding decrease in QOL, as well as controlled trials of alternative/complementary remedies should be considered.