Nursing 163 Final Exam

Health Promotion, Adherence, and Communication

Health Promotion

• Primary Prevention

  • Focus on preventing disease before it occurs.

  • Common methods include:

    • Vaccinations (e.g., flu, shingles)

    • Exercise as a routine physical activity

    • Healthy Diet and Regular Check-ups

• Secondary Prevention

  • Targets early disease detection to prevent progression.

  • Involves Screening Tests:

    • Mammograms, colonoscopies, pap smears

    • Blood pressure checks and diabetes screening

• Tertiary Prevention

  • Focuses on managing and mitigating long-term effects of existing diseases.

  • Involves Treatment Plans post-diagnosis, including:

    • Medications and lifestyle adjustments

    • Physical rehabilitation and support services

Adherence to Plan of Care

• Understanding Adherence

  • Adhering to the plan of care set by healthcare professionals to maintain or improve health.

  • May include medications, diet, exercise, and treatment recommendations.

• Barriers to Adherence

  • Communication difficulties due to cognitive decline, hearing loss, or vision issues.

  • Financial constraints and lack of resources.

  • Other life priorities overshadowing health plans.

Improving Communication

• Effective Communication Techniques

  • Utilize clear language and professional terminology.

  • Avoid elder speak; address older adults respectfully by their names unless rapport is established.

  • Ensure visibility for hearing-impaired patients by speaking clearly and facing them directly.

  • Be aware of body language; position yourself at the patient's eye level.

  • Consider implementing visual aids or using medical interpreters to bridge communication gaps.

Health Promotion Activities

• Emphasizing Diet and Exercise

  • Importance of specific dietary adjustments depending on health conditions:

    • Renal Patients: Low sodium, low potassium, and low protein diet.

    • Cardiac Patients: Low sodium and low cholesterol diet.

  • Importance of hydration, especially among older adults, to prevent dehydration.

• Exercise Recommendations

  • Encourage at least 30 minutes of mild exercise (walking, swimming) to maintain mobility and prevent injuries.

Safety Considerations

• Primary Safety Priorities

  • Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Safety, and Infection Prevention are critical for patient care.

  • Assessments related to safety include:

    • Risks associated with driving, medication administration, and home environment hazards.

• Thermoregulation

  • Watch for hypothermia and hyperthermia, especially in older adults.

  • Monitor signs and symptoms:

    • Cold exposure can lead to confusion and increased fall risk.

    • Heat exposure can lead to heat stroke or exhaustion; hydration is essential.

Cognitive Health: Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s

• Identifying Symptoms

  • Alzheimer's: cognitive decline and memory issues.

  • Dementia: general cognitive decline, including forgetfulness and agitation.

  • Parkinson's: shakes, shuffling gait, and muscle rigidity.

  • Engagement strategies are vital for maintaining communication with dementia patients.

Hydration and Electrolytes

• Fluid Volume Status

  • Fluid Volume Deficit: Signs include high heart rate, low blood pressure, and dry skin.

  • Fluid Volume Overload: May present with high blood pressure, edema, and difficulty breathing.

  • Monitor and manage electrolyte balance, particularly potassium and sodium, which are critical to cardiac function.

Coping and Stress Management

• Coping Strategies for Older Adults

  • Encourage open communication about emotional distress connected to loss or health challenges.

  • Suggest professional support where necessary (counseling and support groups).

  • Remind them of the importance of activities of daily living to maintain engagement and quality of life.

Cultural Competence

• Understanding Cultural Influences

  • Acknowledge the diverse backgrounds of patients in providing care.

  • Be informed about dietary restrictions or spiritual needs associated with different cultures to ensure respectful and competent care.