T3 DQ1. 250 WORDS CITATION AND REFERENCES Discuss how elimination complexities can affect the lives of patients and their families. Discuss the nurse’s role in supporting the patient’s psychological and emotional needs. Provide an example. T3DQ2. 250 WORDS CITATION AND REFERENCES Discuss how functional patterns help a nurse understand the current and past state of health for a patient. Using a condition or disease associated with an elimination complexity, provide an example.
The presence of elimination complexities in patients can greatly impact their lives and the lives of their families. Elimination complexities include conditions or diseases that affect the process of excretion and removal of waste products from the body, such as renal failure, bowel disorders, or urinary incontinence.
One major way elimination complexities affect patients and their families is through the physical limitations they impose. Patients with renal failure may require regular dialysis treatments, which can be time-consuming and physically draining. This can limit their ability to engage in everyday activities and may restrict their social interactions and overall quality of life. Similarly, patients with bowel disorders may experience frequent diarrhea or constipation, which can cause discomfort and affect their ability to participate in work or social activities.
In addition to the physical challenges, elimination complexities also have a significant impact on patients’ psychological and emotional well-being. Patients may experience feelings of embarrassment, shame, or loss of control due to their condition. For example, a patient with urinary incontinence may feel ashamed and isolated, avoiding social situations due to fear of embarrassment. These emotional challenges can further contribute to a decreased quality of life and may also affect the mental health of both the patient and their family members.
Nurses play a crucial role in supporting patients with elimination complexities and addressing their psychological and emotional needs. One way nurses can support patients is by providing education and counseling. For example, a nurse caring for a patient with urinary incontinence can educate them about strategies to manage their condition, such as pelvic floor exercises or the use of absorbent products. By providing this information, nurses empower patients to take control of their condition and reduce feelings of helplessness or isolation.
Furthermore, nurses can create a safe and non-judgmental environment where patients feel comfortable expressing their emotions and concerns. Active listening, empathy, and validation of patients’ experiences are essential in supporting their psychological well-being. For instance, a nurse caring for a patient with a bowel disorder may actively listen to their concerns and acknowledge the emotional impact the condition has on their daily life. This validation helps patients feel understood and may alleviate some of the emotional distress they are experiencing.
Nurses can also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists or social workers, to provide comprehensive support to patients and their families. These interdisciplinary collaborations can help address the complex emotional and social needs that arise from elimination complexities. For example, a nurse may refer a patient and their family to a support group for individuals with bowel disorders, where they can find a sense of community and share their experiences with others who understand.
In conclusion, elimination complexities can have a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families, affecting both their physical and psychological well-being. Nurses play a crucial role in supporting patients with elimination complexities by providing education, counseling, and creating a supportive environment. By addressing the patient’s psychological and emotional needs, nurses contribute to improving their overall quality of life and well-being.
References:
American Nephrology Nurses Association. (2020). Psychosocial issues. Retrieved from https://www.annanurse.org/page/Practice_Guidelines
Coyne, K. S., Cash, B., Kopp, Z. S., Gelhorn, H. L., Milsom, I., & Bolge, S. C. (2014). The prevalence of chronic constipation and faecal incontinence among men and women with symptoms of overactive bladder. BJU International, 114(3), 361-369. doi: 10.1111/bju.12510