As a public health nurse at a free clinic, you are assessin…

Introduction

In this scenario, a 21-year-old woman presenting with symptoms of fatigue and overall poor health is assessed and interviewed at a free clinic. During the interview, it is revealed that she has several risk factors contributing to her current state, including poor nutrition, heavy smoking, engaging in high-risk behaviors such as rummaging through trash, and occasional drug use. This paper will explore the potential health implications of these risk factors and propose appropriate interventions to address the client’s concerns.

Nutrition and its Effect on Health

The young woman’s admission of averaging one meal per day is a significant concern as it indicates inadequate nutrition. Poor nutrition can have detrimental effects on overall health and energy levels. Insufficient intake of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, can lead to malnutrition and result in various health problems (National Institutes of Health [NIH], 2020).

In the case of this client, the lack of energy and overall feeling of unwellness can be directly attributed to her poor nutritional intake. The constant physical strain she puts on her body by searching for food in trash cans further exacerbates the energy depletion. Without proper nutrition, the body is unable to function optimally, leading to fatigue, weakened immune system, impaired cognitive function, and increased susceptibility to illnesses (NIH, 2020). Addressing this issue will require interventions to improve the client’s access to nutritious food.

Smoking and its Impact on Health

The client’s smoking habit, consuming up to two packs of cigarettes per day, is another significant risk factor contributing to her poor health and lack of energy. Smoking is a known risk factor for numerous health problems, including heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory diseases (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). It is a major cause of preventable deaths worldwide.

Smoking has direct consequences on energy levels and overall well-being. Nicotine, the addictive substance in cigarettes, acts as a stimulant and initially increases alertness and attention. However, the long-term effects of smoking include increased heart rate, reduced lung capacity, and damage to blood vessels, leading to reduced oxygen supply to body tissues (CDC, 2020). These effects contribute to fatigue, decreased physical stamina, and diminished overall health. To address this issue, the client would benefit from interventions aimed at smoking cessation and support for healthier lifestyle choices.

Engagement in High-Risk Behaviors

The client’s admission to rummaging through trash to find items she can sell for food, snacks, and cigarettes indicates a state of extreme poverty and desperation. Engaging in such high-risk behavior poses not only immediate physical hazards but also long-term consequences for health and well-being. Rummaging through trash increases the risk of exposure to harmful substances, such as bacteria, toxins, and sharp objects, which can lead to infections, injuries, and other health complications.

Additionally, living in poverty often results in limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, safe living conditions, and educational opportunities. These underlying determinants of health further contribute to poor health outcomes and perpetuate a cycle of disadvantage (World Health Organization [WHO], 2019). Addressing the client’s socioeconomic needs, such as access to affordable housing, employment opportunities, and social support, is essential in improving her overall well-being.

Occasional Drug Use

The client’s admission to using street drugs occasionally when the opportunity arises adds another layer of complexity to her health situation. Substance abuse is associated with various health risks, including physical and mental health problems, as well as social and economic consequences (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2021). Occasional drug use can easily escalate to more frequent and problematic use, further exacerbating the client’s health and social issues.

Conclusion

The 21-year-old woman seeking assistance at the free clinic presents with several risk factors that contribute to her poor health and lack of energy. These risk factors include inadequate nutrition, heavy smoking, engagement in high-risk behaviors, and occasional drug use. To address these concerns, a comprehensive approach that includes interventions to improve nutrition, support smoking cessation, address socioeconomic needs, and provide substance abuse support is necessary. The ultimate goal is to empower the client to make positive changes in her life and improve her overall health and well-being.