Nursing plan of care or intervention
Before any nursing plan of care or intervention can be implemented or evaluated, the nurse assesses the individual through the collection of both subjective and objective data. The data collected are used to determine areas of need or problems to be addressed by the nursing care plan.
• To recognize the interrelationships of subjective data (physiological, psychosocial, cultural/spiritual, and developmental) affecting health and wellness.
• To reflect on the interactive process between self and client when conducting a health assessment.
Explain expected client behaviors while differentiating between normal findings variations, and abnormalities. (PO 1)
Utilize prior knowledge of theories and principles of nursing and related disciplines to integrate clinical judgment in professional decision-making and implementation of nursing process while obtaining a physical assessment. (POs 4 & 8)
Recognize the influence that developmental stages have on physical, psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual functioning. (PO 1)
Utilize effective communication when performing a health assessment. (PO 3)
Sample Answer
Understanding Subjective Data:
- Physiological: This includes symptoms, pain levels, sleep patterns, appetite, fatigue, and any bodily discomfort. Normal: Age-appropriate energy levels, healthy sleep patterns, absence of pain or discomfort. Variations: Individual differences in sleep or energy needs, occasional aches or pains. Abnormalities: Persistent pain, significant changes in sleep or appetite, unusual bodily sensations.
- Psychosocial: This covers emotions, stress levels, relationships, coping mechanisms, and social support. Normal: Age-appropriate emotional expression, healthy coping mechanisms, strong social support. Variations: Individual differences in emotional expression, use of healthy coping mechanisms, varied levels of social support. Abnormalities: Excessive anxiety or depression, unhealthy coping mechanisms (substance abuse, isolation), lack of social support.