Understanding Health and Illness: Key Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts related to health and illness, focusing on acute vs. chronic illness, human dimensions of health, basic human needs, and the role of nurses in promoting health.

Acute Illness

A health condition that has a rapid onset, short duration, and typically resolves quickly.

Chronic Illness

A health condition that has a gradual onset, long-term duration, and requires ongoing management.

Similarities between Acute and Chronic Illness

Both can disrupt normal body function, cause distress, and require assessment and care by healthcare professionals.

Intellectual Dimension of Health

Influenced by cognitive abilities and education, affecting understanding and decision-making about health.

Physical Dimension of Health

Influenced by genetic inheritance, age, and lifestyle choices affecting predisposition to diseases and daily functioning.

Environmental Dimension of Health

Involves factors like housing, sanitation, and exposure to hazards impacting overall health.

Basic Human Needs

Maslow's Hierarchy categorizes needs that motivate people's actions, starting from physiological to self-actualization.

Self-Actualization Needs

The pursuit of reaching one's full potential and personal growth, often impacted by illness.

Role of the Nurse in Promoting Health

Includes educating about healthy lifestyles, advocating for informed decisions, and connecting patients to resources.

Cultural Competence in Nursing

The ability to provide care that respects and accounts for diverse cultural beliefs and practices.