Section C

• Section C:
  • In this section, the process of taking a health assessment is the focus. The two main components of a health assessment are the patient history and the physical examination.

Discuss how a health assessment would need to be tailored to the individual patient in 2 (two) of the scenarios below. For each of the 2 (two) chosen scenarios, also identify 4 (four) different aspects of health assessment, including features of the setting, as well as developmental, age-specific information, cultural and/or lifespan factors that may impact the interaction between a nurse and patient. You may consider physical, psychological, cultural and/or environmental factors before, during or after a health assessment. In this section you are demonstrating that as an RN you are able to shape the health assessment in reference to the specific situation and patient.

1. Mr A, a 76-year-old man who resides in an aged care facility, is having his annual health review. Mr A has a hearing deficit, osteoporosis and intermittent constipation, and is visited by his daughter weekly.

1. Mr B, a 6-month-old male child (accompanied by his parent) recently immigrated from Sudan and is visiting a child health nurse. Mr B has no known health concerns.

1. Mr C, a 54-year-old man who has had a bowel operation today and the nurse is caring for him on the hospital ward. Mr C identifies as Torres Strait Islander and his wife is sitting with him as he recovers.

1. Ms D, a 22-year-old female (who has recently moved interstate for study) presents at the emergency department having had a slow speed motor vehicle accident on her scooter.

1. Mrs E, a 48-year old female, recently diagnosed with high blood pressure, is visiting the general practice office where the nurse works as a practice nurse. Mrs E is a single mother with 2 teenage children.