Compare vulnerable populations. Describe an example of one of these groups in the United States or from another country. Explain why the population is designated as “vulnerable.” Include the number of individuals belonging to this group and the specific challenges or issues involved. Discuss why these populations are unable to advocate for themselves, the ethical issues that must be considered when working with these groups, and how nursing advocacy would be beneficial
Vulnerable populations are groups that are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse health outcomes due to various social, economic, and environmental factors. These populations often face significant barriers in accessing healthcare services and are more susceptible to disparities in health outcomes. In this essay, we will compare vulnerable populations and discuss an example of one such group from the United States.
One vulnerable population in the United States is individuals experiencing homelessness. According to the 2019 Annual Homeless Assessment Report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), on any given night, an estimated 568,000 people experience homelessness in the United States (HUD, 2019). Homelessness is a complex issue that results from a range of factors such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, substance abuse, and systemic inequalities.
Individuals experiencing homelessness face various challenges and issues that contribute to their vulnerability. Firstly, access to healthcare services is often limited for this population. Lack of insurance, transportation, and a stable address are some of the factors that hinder homeless individuals from receiving timely and appropriate healthcare. Consequently, untreated or undiagnosed health conditions can exacerbate and lead to further health problems.
Additionally, individuals experiencing homelessness are susceptible to mental health disorders and substance abuse. Studies have consistently demonstrated higher rates of mental illness and substance use disorders among the homeless population compared to the general population (Baggett et al., 2010; Fazel et al., 2014). These co-occurring disorders often perpetuate cycles of homelessness and make it more challenging for individuals to break free from homelessness.
Another significant challenge for homeless individuals is the lack of access to basic necessities such as food, clothing, and personal hygiene. Living on the streets exposes them to harsh weather conditions, limited sanitation facilities, and increased risk of violence or victimization. These adverse circumstances contribute to a host of health problems, including malnutrition, infections, and injuries.
Homeless individuals are unable to advocate for themselves effectively due to numerous reasons. Firstly, the lack of stable housing and limited resources prevents them from participating in traditional forms of advocacy, such as attending community meetings or engaging in political actions. Furthermore, the stigma associated with homelessness marginalizes this population and often leads to their voices being disregarded or dismissed. Homeless individuals also struggle to navigate the complex healthcare system, resulting in a lack of knowledge about available resources and their rights.
When working with vulnerable populations, such as individuals experiencing homelessness, several ethical issues must be considered. First and foremost, healthcare providers must prioritize maintaining the confidentiality and privacy of these individuals. Given the sensitive nature of their circumstances, protecting their confidentiality is crucial in building trust and ensuring their willingness to seek healthcare services.
Another ethical consideration is the principle of beneficence, which calls for healthcare providers to act in the best interest of their patients. With vulnerable populations, balancing the autonomy of the individual with the need for intervention can be challenging. For instance, homeless individuals may have complex mental health needs that require intervention, but any treatment plan must be developed in collaboration with the individual to respect their autonomy and preferences.
Moreover, culturally sensitive care is essential when working with vulnerable populations. Recognizing and respecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of homeless individuals can positively influence the quality of care provided. Understanding the impact of homelessness on various ethnic and racial groups and tailoring interventions accordingly can help address the unique needs of these communities.
Nursing advocacy plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, including those experiencing homelessness. By actively advocating for policy changes and increased resources for affordable housing, healthcare access, and mental health services, nurses can help address the root causes of homelessness. Additionally, nursing advocacy involves raising awareness about homeless individuals’ unique needs and challenging the stigma and misconceptions surrounding them.