1.
Nursing
1.1
Definition
1.2
Requirements
1.3
Responsibility
1.4
Goals of nursing
1.5 Influences of our sensory organs
1.6 Holistic care
1.7 Observation of the sick
1.8 course of the disease
Today 1.6-8
holistic care
Holistic care is an approach to healthcare that
considers the whole person, addressing their physical, mental, emotional,
social, and spiritual well-being. It recognizes that these aspects are
interconnected and influence an individual's overall health and quality of
life. Holistic care goes beyond treating just the symptoms of a disease or
illness and aims to promote wellness and balance in all areas of a person's
life. Here
are some key aspects of holistic care:
1.
Comprehensive
Assessment: Holistic care begins with a comprehensive assessment of the
patient, taking into account their physical health, mental and emotional state,
social support systems, lifestyle factors, and spiritual beliefs. This
assessment helps healthcare providers gain a holistic understanding of the
individual and their unique needs.
2.
Individualized
Care: Holistic care recognizes that each person is unique and has their own set
of needs and preferences. It emphasizes individualized care plans that are
tailored to meet the specific requirements of the person, considering their
physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions.
3.
Integration
of Modalities: Holistic care often integrates conventional medical treatments
with complementary and alternative therapies. This may include techniques such
as acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation, nutritional counseling, herbal
remedies, and mind-body approaches. The goal is to address the person's needs
from various perspectives and provide a range of options for healing and
well-being.
4.
Emphasis
on Preventive Care: Holistic care emphasizes preventive measures and health
promotion. It focuses on educating individuals about healthy lifestyle choices,
disease prevention strategies, stress management techniques, and self-care
practices. By empowering individuals to take an active role in their own
health, holistic care aims to prevent illness and promote overall well-being.
5.
Collaborative
Approach: Holistic care encourages collaboration and open communication among
healthcare providers, patients, and their families. It recognizes the
importance of building therapeutic relationships, fostering trust, and
involving the patient as an active participant in their care. It also promotes
coordination and integration of care across different healthcare disciplines
and settings.
6.
Emotional
and Psychological Support: Holistic care acknowledges the significant impact of
emotions and psychological well-being on physical health. It emphasizes the
provision of emotional support, counseling services, and access to mental health
resources. This can help individuals cope with stress, anxiety, and other
emotional challenges that may affect their overall well-being.
7.
Promotion
of Health Equity: Holistic care recognizes the importance of addressing social
determinants of health and promoting health equity. It acknowledges that
factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, education, and
cultural background can significantly influence a person's health. Holistic
care aims to reduce health disparities and ensure that care is accessible and
inclusive for all individuals.
By embracing a holistic care approach, healthcare
providers strive to address the diverse needs of patients, promote wellness,
and enhance the overall quality of care. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness
of the different dimensions of health and acknowledges the importance of
treating the person as a whole.
Observation of the sick
Observation of the sick is a critical aspect of
nursing care. It involves systematically assessing and monitoring the physical,
mental, and emotional status of patients to identify changes in their
condition, detect potential complications, and evaluate the effectiveness of
interventions. Here are some key points to consider in the observation of the
sick:
1.
Vital
Signs: Vital signs include measurements such as body temperature, heart rate,
blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Regularly monitoring and documenting
vital signs can provide valuable information about a patient's overall health
status, identify signs of deterioration, and guide appropriate interventions.
2.
General
Appearance: Observing the patient's general appearance can provide initial
clues about their well-being. Factors to consider include the patient's level
of consciousness, skin color, overall hygiene, body posture, and signs of
distress or discomfort.
3.
Pain
Assessment: Assessing and monitoring pain is crucial in managing patient
comfort. Nurses use pain scales and subjective reports from the patient to
evaluate the intensity, location, and characteristics of pain. Observing
non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions, body language, and guarding
behaviors, can also provide insight into a patient's pain experience.
4.
Skin
Assessment: Regularly assessing the skin is important to detect any
abnormalities or changes that may indicate skin breakdown, infection, or poor
circulation. Observations may include skin color, temperature, moisture,
integrity, presence of rashes, lesions, or pressure injuries.
5.
Respiratory
Assessment: Assessing the respiratory status involves observing the patient's
breathing pattern, respiratory rate, depth, and effort. Additionally,
monitoring oxygen saturation levels through pulse oximetry can provide
information about the patient's oxygenation status.
6.
Neurological
Assessment: Evaluating the patient's neurological function involves assessing
their level of consciousness, orientation to person, place, and time, and motor
and sensory responses. This helps identify any changes in neurological status,
such as confusion, weakness, or alterations in speech.
7.
Gastrointestinal
Assessment: Observing the gastrointestinal system involves assessing factors
such as appetite, bowel movements, abdominal distention, presence of nausea or
vomiting, and any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
8.
Emotional
and Behavioral Assessment: Observing the patient's emotional and behavioral
responses can provide insights into their mental and emotional well-being. It
involves assessing their mood, affect, level of anxiety or distress, and any
signs of depression or agitation.
9.
Intake
and Output: Monitoring the patient's intake and output is essential to assess
their fluid balance. Observing the amount of fluid intake, urine output, and
any abnormal losses (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) helps identify fluid imbalances
or potential issues with organ function.
10.
Medication
and Treatment Response: Observing the patient's response to medications and
treatments is crucial in evaluating their effectiveness and potential side
effects or adverse reactions. This may involve monitoring vital signs,
assessing for therapeutic effects, and observing for any signs of allergic
reactions or complications.
Regular and thorough observation of the sick is vital
to early identification of changes in the patient's condition, prompt
intervention, and effective management of their care. It enables nurses to
provide timely and appropriate interventions, collaborate with the healthcare
team, and ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.
How to conduct the observation of the sick
Conducting the observation of a sick patient involves
a systematic and comprehensive approach. Here are the general steps to follow:
1.
Prepare:
Before starting the observation, gather all necessary equipment such as a
thermometer, blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, pulse oximeter, pain assessment
tools, and documentation materials. Ensure a comfortable and
private environment for the patient.
2.
Introduce
Yourself: Introduce yourself to the patient and explain the purpose of the
observation. Obtain consent from the patient or their authorized
representative, ensuring they understand the process and their rights.
3.
Establish
Rapport: Build a rapport with the patient to promote trust and cooperation.
Listen attentively, provide reassurance, and address any concerns they may
have. Maintain
a calm and respectful demeanor throughout the process.
4.
Gather
Patient Information: Review the patient's medical history, current condition,
and any relevant information from the healthcare team. This helps provide
context for the observation and identifies specific areas of concern to focus
on.
5.
Begin
the Observation: Start by assessing the patient's general appearance, noting
their level of consciousness, orientation, and overall demeanor. Observe for
any signs of distress, discomfort, or abnormal behavior.
6.
Vital
Signs Assessment: Measure and record the patient's vital signs, including body
temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Follow
appropriate techniques for each measurement and document the findings
accurately.
7.
Physical
Assessment: Perform a systematic physical assessment, focusing on different
body systems. This may include inspecting the skin, assessing respiratory
effort and lung sounds, listening to heart sounds, evaluating neurological
status, checking for edema, and examining the abdomen.
8.
Pain
Assessment: Use appropriate pain assessment tools and techniques to evaluate
the patient's pain. Consider both subjective reports from the patient and
objective observations of pain-related behaviors. Document
the intensity, location, and characteristics of the pain.
9.
Communication
and Mental Status Assessment: Engage in therapeutic communication to assess the
patient's mental and emotional well-being. Observe their speech, mood, affect,
level of anxiety, and any signs of confusion or cognitive impairment.
10.
Document
Findings: Record all observations accurately and promptly in the patient's
medical record or appropriate documentation system. Use clear and concise
language, including relevant details such as measurements, descriptions, and
any changes from previous assessments.
11.
Report
and Collaboration: Communicate the findings to the healthcare team, including
relevant changes or concerns observed during the assessment. Collaborate with
other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive care plan based on
the assessment findings.
12.
Follow-up
and Reassessment: Regularly reassess the patient's condition based on their
individual needs, the severity of their illness, and the healthcare setting.
Continuously monitor their status, document changes, and communicate
observations to ensure ongoing patient care and management.
Remember to prioritize patient comfort, privacy, and
dignity throughout the observation process. Maintain professionalism, provide
emotional support, and involve the patient in their care whenever possible.
Effective observation contributes to accurate diagnosis, appropriate
interventions, and improved patient outcomes.
Course of the disease
the illness over time. The specific course of a
disease can vary widely depending on the type of illness, its severity,
individual factors, and the effectiveness of treatment. However, many diseases
follow a general pattern that can be categorized into different stages or
phases. Here is a simplified overview of the typical course of a disease:
1.
Incubation
Period: This is the period between the initial exposure to a pathogen
(infectious agent) and the onset of symptoms. During this stage, the pathogen
replicates in the body without causing noticeable symptoms.
2.
Prodromal
Phase: In this phase, the person may experience mild, non-specific symptoms
such as fatigue, headache, or a general feeling of being unwell. These symptoms
serve as early warning signs before the full onset of the disease.
3.
Acute
Phase: The acute phase is characterized by the peak of symptoms and the
manifestation of the full clinical picture of the disease. Symptoms can vary
widely depending on the specific illness and may include fever, pain,
inflammation, respiratory difficulties, gastrointestinal disturbances, or
neurological changes.
4.
Convalescent
Phase: After the acute phase, the body begins to recover and heal. During the
convalescent phase, symptoms gradually subside, and the individual's strength
and overall well-being improve. The duration of this phase can vary, with some
individuals making a full recovery, while others may experience lingering
symptoms or require ongoing management.
5.
Chronic
Phase: For certain diseases, there may be a chronic phase that follows the
acute phase. Chronic diseases are characterized by long-term or recurring
symptoms and require ongoing management and treatment. Examples of chronic
diseases include diabetes, asthma, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders.
The course of specific diseases can vary
significantly. Some diseases may have relapses and remissions, while others may
progress steadily or worsen over time. Additionally, treatment interventions
can influence the course of a disease, either by slowing its progression,
managing symptoms, or achieving remission.
It is crucial for individuals to seek medical
attention if they experience any symptoms or suspect they may have a particular
illness. Proper diagnosis, timely treatment, and adherence to healthcare recommendations
are key factors in managing and improving the course of a disease. Healthcare
professionals play a crucial role in providing guidance, monitoring disease
progression, and adjusting treatment plans to optimize outcomes for their patients.
Classification of diseases
Diseases can be classified in various ways based on
different criteria. Here are some common classifications of diseases:
1.
By
Etiology: a. Infectious Diseases: Caused by pathogens such as bacteria,
viruses, fungi, or parasites. Examples include influenza, tuberculosis, and
malaria. b. Genetic Diseases: Result from abnormalities or mutations in genes.
Examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Huntington's disease.
c. Environmental Diseases: Caused by exposure to environmental factors such as
toxins, pollutants, or radiation. Examples include mesothelioma, lead
poisoning, and radiation sickness. d. Autoimmune Diseases: Arise when the
immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Examples
include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.
2.
By
Organ System: Diseases can be classified based on the affected organ system or
body part. Examples include cardiovascular diseases (heart and blood vessels),
respiratory diseases (lungs and airways), gastrointestinal diseases (digestive
system), and neurological diseases (nervous system).
3.
By
Pathophysiology: a. Inflammatory Diseases: Characterized by inflammation in
tissues or organs. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel
disease, and asthma. b. Degenerative Diseases: Involve progressive
deterioration or loss of function in organs or tissues. Examples include
Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and osteoarthritis. c. Metabolic
Diseases: Result from abnormalities in metabolic processes. Examples include
diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and hyperthyroidism. d. Neoplastic Diseases:
Refers to cancers or tumors, which involve uncontrolled growth and division of
cells. Examples
include breast cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia.
4.
By
Age of Onset: Diseases can be classified based on the age at which they
typically develop. a. Pediatric Diseases: Occur in children and infants.
Examples include congenital heart defects, pediatric cancers, and childhood
infectious diseases like chickenpox. b. Adult-Onset Diseases: Develop in
adulthood. Examples include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types
of cancer. c. Geriatric Diseases: Occur in older adults. Examples include
Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and age-related macular degeneration.
5.
By
Severity: Diseases can also be classified based on their severity, ranging from
mild to severe or life-threatening. Examples include mild respiratory
infections, moderate depression, severe sepsis, and terminal cancers.
These classifications are not mutually exclusive, and
diseases can often fall into multiple categories. Additionally, advancements in
medical research and understanding may lead to changes and refinements in
disease classifications over time. Healthcare professionals use these
classifications to guide diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies for
various diseases.
Classification of Symptoms
Symptoms are subjective experiences reported by
individuals that may indicate the presence of an underlying condition or
disease. Symptom classification helps healthcare professionals in identifying
and diagnosing illnesses. Here are some common classifications of
symptoms:
1.
Constitutional
Symptoms: These symptoms affect the overall well-being of an individual and
often indicate a systemic illness. They can include fatigue, fever, weight
loss, and loss of appetite.
2.
Pain
Symptoms: Pain is a common symptom that can be classified based on its
location, duration, and characteristics. Examples include sharp pain, dull
pain, localized pain, radiating pain, acute pain, or chronic pain.
3.
Respiratory
Symptoms: These symptoms pertain to the respiratory system and can include
coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, or sputum production.
4.
Gastrointestinal
Symptoms: These symptoms relate to the gastrointestinal tract and may include
abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or changes
in bowel habits.
5.
Cardiovascular
Symptoms: These symptoms involve the heart and blood vessels and can include
chest pain or discomfort (angina), palpitations, shortness of breath,
dizziness, or swelling in the extremities.
6.
Neurological
Symptoms: These symptoms relate to the nervous system and can include
headaches, dizziness, numbness or tingling, weakness, seizures, coordination
problems, or changes in cognition or memory.
7.
Musculoskeletal
Symptoms: These symptoms pertain to the muscles and bones and can include joint
pain, muscle aches, stiffness, limited range of motion, swelling, or
deformities.
8.
Dermatological
Symptoms: These symptoms affect the skin and can include rashes, itching,
redness, swelling, lesions, or changes in skin color or texture.
9.
Psychological
Symptoms: These symptoms affect a person's mental and emotional well-being and
can include anxiety, depression, mood swings, irritability, sleep disturbances,
or changes in appetite.
10.
Genitourinary
Symptoms: These symptoms involve the urinary and reproductive systems and can
include urinary frequency or urgency, pain or burning during urination, changes
in urine color or volume, abnormal vaginal discharge, or sexual dysfunction.
These symptoms can be nonspecific, meaning they can be
present in multiple conditions, or they can be specific to certain diseases.
Proper evaluation and diagnosis by healthcare professionals, taking into
account the full clinical picture and additional diagnostic tests, are crucial
for determining the underlying cause of symptoms.
This classification is not exhaustive, and symptoms
can overlap or present differently depending on the individual and the specific
condition. Healthcare professionals consider a comprehensive assessment of
symptoms along with medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests
to make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans.
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