Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Nursing and Midwifery

This book explores the historical, social, political and cultural facets of integration between complementary and alternative medicine and nursing/midwifery. It examines the ever-expanding integration in relation to: the role and conceptualisation of the patient; the role and responsibilities of different professional health care providers (nurses, midwives, alternative therapists, etc); the future provision and approach of nursing and midwifery practice; and, the challenges and opportunities currently facing health care systems as a result of integration. This innovative book provides the first critical overview of this important field of health research. It is important reading for medical sociologists, nurses and other health professionals - as well as students in these areas - with an interest in complementary and alternative medicine.