N109: Foundations in Nursing Practice

N109: Foundations in Nursing Practice Study Guide of 154 several medications that may interact with each other and may further decrease sensations. People of all ages who do not get regular exercise are more prone to obesity and the chronic illnesses associated with a sedentary lifestyle. The older adult may experience incontinence, which can have an effect on the individual’s lifestyle and willingness to go out and be active. Cultural/Spiritual Beliefs Since roles are defined by culture, an individual’s functional well-being may be influenced by health- seeking behaviors. It is also important to note why the individual believes he is sick, as some cultures view it as punishment for some wrongdoing. Language and cultural stereotyping may result in barriers to healthcare. At the time of death, many cultures and religions have very specific rituals surrounding the event. The nurse must be aware of and facilitate these rituals and attempt to accommodate based on the individual’s functional abilities. Older adults with strong spiritual beliefs may cope better with illness or the death of loved ones than those without such spiritual support. Socioeconomic Factors Family income and education will have an impact on the individual’s functional abilities and the ability to receive quality healthcare. If the family does not have access to healthy food, or cannot afford it, the risk of malnutrition and obesity will increase. The poor, elderly, and very young are particularly at risk for poor nutrition. Children from low-income families may be at risk for growth and developmental delays. Environmental Factors Environmental factors can influence the growth and development of individuals at risk. Traffic, noise, overcrowding, crime and violence, lack of public transportation, trash, litter, and pollution can put all individuals at risk. The very young and very old are at increased risk for these environmental hazards and functional development can be impacted by them. Houses built before 1980 increase the risk of lead poisoning in children because the house was likely painted with lead-based paint. Secondhand smoke affects air quality and is harmful to those who breathe that air. Unprotected exposure to the sun increases the risk of skin cancer. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles a person’s chances of developing melanoma later on in life. Psychological Factors During the developmental process, coping skills and mental health of the family and community can have a profound influence on all members of the community. Adolescents and young adults who engage in unprotected sex and sex with multiple partners may experience negative psychological consequences, especially if the individual acquires a sexually transmitted disease or an unwanted pregnancy. Alcohol and drug abuse can have a negative impact on the development of the child, but substance abuse can also create feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem in any individual. As the individual ages and begins to develop chronic illness and sensory impairment, they may become depressed. The nurse must assess the psychological status of all family members to determine risk. Nutrition Nutrition plays a large role in a person’s overall health. Children may become malnourished if they are not taking in the needed nutrients provided by healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Older ©2017 Achieve Test Prep Page 21