NR 302 Exam 1

NR 302 Exam 1

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-302: Health Assessment I

Prof. Name

Date

Concept Review

1. Understanding Physical vs. Emotional Responses

Nursing questions can be objective, requiring simple, direct answers, or they may be more communication-focused, needing interpretative responses. Objective responses are typically prompted by questions such as “How do you?” or “What type of data?” and may specify physical aspects. Communication-focused questions often ask, “What factors?” or “How can improvement be achieved?” indicating an emotional or subjective response is required.

2. Communication Techniques in Nursing

Nurses need to choose between open-ended and closed-ended questions based on the context. Open-ended questions, such as, “Can you describe how you’re feeling today?” allow patients to share in-depth responses, especially helpful when gathering narrative information. Conversely, closed-ended questions like, “Did you take your medication today?” are useful for obtaining specific details or guiding conversations effectively. Cultural awareness also plays a crucial role; respecting and integrating patients’ cultural beliefs into care plans enhances rapport and supports holistic care.

3. Assessing Databases and Using SBAR

Different databases suit various scenarios: a complete database is appropriate for new patients, while a focused database may address a single, acute issue in returning patients. Emergency databases provide critical, immediate data, and follow-up databases focus on longer-term care. The SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) model assists in structured communication, summarizing patient situations, background, current assessments, and care recommendations effectively.

Nursing Assessment & Basics

1. Types of Databases and Their Applications

Different databases are utilized based on patient needs. A complete database captures a new patient’s full health history, while a focused database addresses specific concerns. For emergency cases, immediate critical information is gathered quickly, and follow-up databases support ongoing care. Recording patient histories accurately, including family medical histories using tools like genograms, provides a comprehensive overview of potential health influences.

2. Understanding Subjective vs. Objective Data

Subjective data reflects what the patient expresses (e.g., “I feel dizzy”), while objective data includes observed signs (e.g., an unsteady gait). Differentiating between these types allows for a well-rounded assessment, capturing both patient reports and measurable observations, such as elevated white blood cell counts for infection or visible signs like vomiting.

3. Pain and Priority Assessments

Pain is assessed based on the patient’s self-reported experience, making them the most reliable source for evaluating pain levels. Before administering pain medication, vital signs are reviewed to determine appropriate treatment. Priority assessments are divided into three levels: first-level (life-threatening, such as airway issues), second-level (urgent, non-life-threatening), and third-level (non-urgent needs like patient education).

Nursing Process and Developmental Care

1. The Nursing Process (ADOPIE)

The nursing process encompasses six essential steps: Assessment, Diagnosis, Outcome identification, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation. This approach ensures a structured method to gather, interpret, and act upon patient information effectively. For example, in planning, a patient with a knee injury might have an end goal of ambulation, with physical therapy implemented as part of the care.

2. Developmental Considerations Across Ages

Patient comfort varies with age, from infants who benefit from calm voices to adolescents who require trust and confidentiality to discuss concerns openly. Aging patients may need slower assessment processes but should not be assumed to have cognitive impairments solely due to age.

3. Consciousness and Mental Status Assessment

Mental status assessment evaluates orientation (person, place, time, and situation) and consciousness levels, ranging from alertness to comatose states. The mini-mental exam is a quick tool for cognitive assessment. It is essential to keep safety protocols in mind, especially with patients showing signs of aggression.

NR 302 Exam 1

References

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.