Opportunity to improve client health behaviors: Expresses desire to learn more about health promotion. Teach client self-assessment procedures (e.g., breast self- examination, testicular self-examination) and the importance of regular medical checkups. Refer to community wellness resources and support groups as they relate to client.
Potential complication-hypertension
Explain the relationships between body weight, diet, exercise, stress, and blood pressure. Explain the possible effects of a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet along with vigorous exercise in reducing the atherosclerotic process. Explain the methods of preparing food low in sodium and fat, and high in potassium. Teach clients who drink alcohol to limit their intake. (See Tables 6-2 and 6-3 for follow-up and referral.)
Poor ambulation ability associated with deconditioning (inability to climb stairs) after illness
Teach client to increase muscle conditioning slowly. Refer to physician for physical therapy if necessary.
Risk for poor thermoregulation associated with febrile illness
Instruct parents on proper method to assess temperature and detect fever. Teach proper method of giving tepid sponge baths and using antipyretics to reduce fever. Teach parents to avoid aspirin or aspirin products in children. Explain the use of quiet play and increasing fluids during this time. Teach parents to monitor for dehydration by assessing oral mucous membranes as needed.
Instruct parent to notify physician in case of high fever.
Risk for infectious disease associated with loss of passive immunity of placenta (age 6-12 months)
Instruct parents to clothe infant well to decrease exposure to others with illnesses. Encourage use of good handwashing techniques for parents and children. Encourage parents to comply with the CDC recommendations on children’s immunizations throughout childhood.
Risk for poor growth and development associated with inadequate nutrition
Instruct parents on adequate nutrient intake for developmental age of child. Refer to dietitian if necessary. Educate parents on the recommended dietary intake of the child for the appropriate age and changes to expect as the child gets older. Identify and discuss cultural beliefs related to dietary intake of the child and strategies to meet child’s dietary needs. Teach parents normal eating behaviors of children, such as toddlers grazing with finger foods, etc. Identify community resources, as appropriate (early intervention, WIC, etc.) to assist the family in providing additional financial resources to support the family in purchasing healthy meals.
Potential Complication-Postural Hypotension
Identify postural hypotension in the older adult (difference of 20 mmHg systolic blood pressure and 10 mmHg diastolic blood pressure from a lying to a standing position). Instruct client to reduce risk of falls by moving from a lying to a sitting position slowly, then standing for 2 to 3 minutes before proceeding.
Risk for hypothermia associated with decreased cardiac output and decreased subcutaneous tissue secondary to aging processes
Encourage good heating in homes and added clothing in cold weather. Teach family to observe for signs of hypothermia, including facial edema, pallor, clouding of vision, decreased blood pressure, and decreased heart rate. Refer to community agencies that may provide shelter, clothing, and food when needed.
Risk for poor thermoregulation associated with age older than 90 years and inappropriate clothing for environmental temperature
Discuss with client decreasing ability to sense environmental temperature extremes with aging and effects of decreased efficiency of circulation to maintain body temperature. Teach client to seek assistance in determining adequate/appropriate clothing to match environment.