Why is it important for the perioperative nurse to inquire about herbal preparations during the interview?

• A. They may cause allergic reactions
• B. They can affect the metabolism of drugs administered
• C. They might interfere with surgical tools
• D. They enhance recovery time

Answer: (B)

Inquiring about herbal preparations during the patient interview is crucial because these substances can significantly affect the metabolism of drugs administered during the perioperative period. Many herbal preparations can interact with standard medications, altering their effectiveness or leading to adverse effects. For instance, certain herbs can inhibit or induce liver enzymes that are responsible for drug metabolism, impacting how quickly or effectively a drug is processed in the body. This can lead to either an increased risk of toxicity or decreased efficacy of essential medications, including anesthetics and analgesics, which can complicate the patient's management before, during, and after surgery. Recognizing these potential interactions allows the perioperative nurse to facilitate safer and more effective perioperative care, ensuring that any necessary adjustments to medication plans are made in light of the patient's herbal intake.