Family Health Assessment Part I

Family Health Assessment Part I

Analysis of Findings

Family Structure

The family chosen for this interview consists of a nuclear unit comprising two adults and three children. The adults, aged 41 (male) and 42 (female), have been married for 13 years. Their three children, comprising two boys and one girl, are aged 9, 6, and 4, respectively. This Caucasian family resides in the suburbs of Tacoma, a built-up area near Seattle in Washington State. They fall into the middle-income bracket, with both parents holding healthcare-related jobs. Notably, the family identifies as liberal Christians.

A Summary of Health Behavior of the Family

During the interview, the parents shared valuable insights into their family’s health behaviors. The family, in general, exhibits positive health practices. They prioritize regular medical check-ups for all family members and have private health insurance coverage. This commitment to health is reinforced by the parents’ professions in healthcare.

At home, the family maintains a regimen of healthy behaviors. They engage in regular physical exercises both within and outside the house. Adequate sleep is also emphasized, especially for the children, although the parents’ sleep patterns are influenced by their work schedules and household responsibilities.

NURS 6630 Week8 Assignment 2: Evaluation and Treatment of Patients With Sleep/Wake Disorders

Communication and nutrition are focal points for this family. The parents actively engage with their children during mealtimes, addressing topics like sexuality, safety, and self-perception. Open communication is encouraged, allowing the children to express their concerns both at home and at school. The family follows a specific dietary policy, regulating food choices during breakfast, school, and dinner. Snack consumption is limited to weekends, and the nutritional content of all consumed food is closely monitored.

Functional Health Pattern Strengths and Problems

Two functional health pattern strengths are evident in this family. Firstly, their vigilant monitoring of the nutritional content of their children’s food choices is commendable. Maintaining good health involves adhering to a balanced diet, avoiding unhealthy foods, and engaging in physical activity. Secondly, the family’s commitment to physical activities, including chores for the children, is a positive practice that supports overall health by enhancing metabolism.

However, the family faces several health-related challenges. The parents, due to long working hours, have limited time for sleep and interaction with their children, which affects their well-being. Financial constraints also pose a barrier to accessing comprehensive healthcare, as their insurance coverage has limitations. Additionally, the family’s distance from approved healthcare providers specified by their insurance provider presents logistical challenges.

Family Systems Theory Application

Family systems theory, which views the family as a complex social system capable of influencing change within its members, can be applied to bring about change in this family. The parents, with their healthcare expertise, can utilize experiential communication to impart health ideals and practices to their children and each other. Their roles as parental authorities also enable them to set guidelines and expectations for their children regarding health behaviors and practices.

References

Damaceno, M. J. C. F., & Chirelli, M. Q. (2019). The Implementation of senior health care in the family health strategy: the view of professionals and managers. Ciência & Saúde Coletiva, 24, 1637-1646. https://doi.org/10.1590/1413-81232018245.04342019

Haefner, J. (2014). An application of Bowen family systems theory. Issues in mental health nursing, 35(11), 835-841.

Werner, N. E., Jolliff, A. F., Casper, G., Martell, T., & Ponto, K. (2018). Home is where the head is: a distributed cognition account of personal health information management in the home among those with chronic illness. Ergonomics, 61(8), 1065-1078. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2018.1435910

Interview Question

Values/Health Perception

1. Do you frequently seek medical care?
2. How would you describe the overall health of your family?
3. Do you have confidence in the healthcare system in your country?

Nutrition

1. Are you attentive to the nutritional content of the food you consume?
2. Is it a habit for you to read nutrition labels on food products?
3. Do you have any specific rules or guidelines regarding snacking?

Family Health Assessment Part I

Sleep/Rest

1. How many hours of sleep do you typically get each day?
2. How much time do you wait after meals before going to sleep?
3. Do you experience snoring during your sleep?

Elimination

1. How regular are your bowel movements? How often do you have them?
2. Is there a noticeable odor in your bowel movements?
3. Have you observed a particular color in your bowel movements?

Activity/Exercise

1. Do you actively engage in physical exercises?
2. How frequently do you participate in physical activities?
3. What types of exercises do you perform, and how regularly?

Cognitive

1. How would you rate your intellectual abilities?
2. Do you believe you have a sharp memory?
3. How often do you experience moments of confusion?

Sensory-Perception

1. How would you assess the quality of your eyesight?
2. Have you noticed any hearing or taste impairments?
3. On a scale from 1 to 7, how would you rate each of your senses?

Self-Perception

1. What is your perception of your self-image?
2. Do you hold a positive outlook about the future and the unknown?
3. What are the impressions and opinions of others regarding you?

Role Relationship

1. How would you characterize your marriage or relationship status?
2. Does your family regularly convene meetings?
3. Would you describe the communication among family members as satisfactory?

Sexuality

1. How open is your family and yourself about discussions related to sexuality?
2. What is your level of openness regarding same-sex relationships?
3. Have you received any sexual health education?

Coping

1. How do you typically cope with stressful situations?
2. Have you ever sought mental health care or counseling?
3. Are there any instances of mental health issues in your extended family?