Health Assessment Tips

 This week I did research that would help me specifically for my WISE project. In order for a nurse to recognize symptoms within a patient that are cause for action, they must conduct a head-to-toe assessment. I found an article that outlines how the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of someone's health may affect their body systems, and what the responsibility of a nurse is during a health assessment. 

GREATEST TAKEAWAYS FROM MY RESEARCH

•  "Establishing a personal relationship of trust and respect between the patient and the nurse is vital." (Terri Zucchero, Ph.D., RN, FNP-BC)
• This exam determines the patient's health needs, current health status, and goals for personal health outcomes
• Nonverbal cues from the patient are just as important. Examples include grimacing, grunting while moving or making contact with a body system, avoiding eye contact, or answering a question.
•  The general status of a patient is taken before vital signs. This includes the level of alertness, state of health, respiratory rate, and state of comfort or distress.
• Do not be afraid to ask for help when noticing an abnormality or something that does not seem right. Rely on your training and instincts.