The patient requests information on alternative treatments for her arthritis. The nurse provides the patient with information on which of the following supplements?

A. Labeling is not always reliable and herbal products should be used with caution. Herbal products are not subject to the same rigorous regulations and testing as pharmaceutical drugs. Therefore, their labeling may not always be accurate or comprehensive. Patients need to be aware of potential risks, interactions, and variations in potency associated with herbal products. Education helps patients make informed decisions and use these products safely.

B. Herbal products are approved under strict FDA regulations. This statement is false. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal products are regulated as dietary supplements in the United States and are not subject to the same level of scrutiny and approval processes by the FDA. While the FDA regulates the manufacturing and labeling of dietary supplements, including herbal products, the standards are not as strict as those for prescription or over-the-counter medications.

C. There are so few side effects, and they can be purchased without a prescription. This statement is misleading and potentially dangerous. Herbal products can indeed have side effects and interactions with medications, and their safety profiles vary widely. Additionally, the availability of herbal products without a prescription does not necessarily imply safety. Patients need education to understand potential risks and benefits associated with herbal product use.

D. The manufacturer has repeatedly demonstrated effectiveness. This statement is unsubstantiated and may not be true for all herbal products. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal products often lack extensive scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for specific indications. While some manufacturers may conduct studies to support their products' efficacy, the evidence may be limited or inconclusive. Patients need education to critically evaluate claims of effectiveness and make informed decisions about herbal product use.

1. White Blood Cell Count (WBC): WBCs are part of the immune system and play a role in fighting infections. However, they are not directly involved in hemostasis or clot formation. WBCs do not adhere to the vessel wall during hemostasis.
2. Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT): aPTT measures the time it takes for blood to clot. It is primarily used to monitor heparin therapy, not warfarin. aPTT is not specific for warfarin monitoring.
3. Prothrombin Time (PT): PT measures how quickly blood clots. It is used to monitor warfarin therapy and assess clotting factors. PT is essential for monitoring warfarin effectiveness.
4. Platelet Count: Platelets are crucial for clot formation. Platelet count helps assess platelet function. Platelets play a direct role in hemostasis.