Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Qualitative Study for Reconsidering Nursing Care in the United States

Abstract

Purpose: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) proposes the world as a holistic unity of energy. With a long history of use, TCM is generally accepted in the Chinese health care system. Despite growing global interest and use, TCM has received a mixed response from Western health care systems. This study aimed to describe the underpinnings of TCM, compare TCM and Western medicine, and suggest how key modalities might be applied to strengthen holistic nursing care in the United States. Design: A qualitative, descriptive exploratory investigation employing a constructivist grounded theory. Method: Interview of TCM healers in Hong Kong ( n = 5). Transcripts were reviewed to identify common themes and categories. Findings: Five themes were identified: improvement in energy flow and health, TCM as “a way of knowing,” curing source versus symptoms of disease, declining TCM practice in Hong Kong, and need for interprofessional education. Conclusions: TCM is considered useful in chronic illnesses, whereas those with acute illnesses often seek Western medicine. Failing to address the holistic care needs and preferences of individuals results in less than optimal health outcomes. Nurses need explicit TCM content and would benefit from a restructuring of curricula and clinical experiences to foster integration into caring practices.

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