A public health nurse works with a specific population. Many of the clients use herbal remedies at home. The nurse would express concern if which of the following clients reported using herbal remedies?

  1. 13-year-old girl with a toothache
  2. 42-year-old man with xerostomia
  3. 59-year-old woman with nasopharyngitis
  4. 20-year-old woman with psoriasis
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: The nurse would express concern if a child with a toothache was using herbal remedies. A toothache can indicate a problem and should be evaluated by a dentist for more comprehensive treatment. There is no objection to adults using herbal remedies for xerostomia (dry mouth), nasopharyngitis (common cold), or psoriasis.