Name
Western Governors University
D222 Comprehensive Health Assessment
Prof. Name
Date
Overview of Patient Assessment
The patient is a young adult male with no significant health issues identified during a comprehensive health evaluation. He stands 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 180 pounds, resulting in a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 20.8, which is classified as normal according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) standards. The patient maintains routine visits with both his primary care provider and dentist and currently reports no medical concerns.
Despite the absence of pressing health problems, two key areas for preventive health promotion were identified: improving nutritional habits, with a focus on increasing vegetable consumption, and enhancing oral hygiene practices. These areas were selected because of their profound influence on long-term health and their typical relevance to lifestyle behaviors in young adults.
Promoting a Healthy Diet
Even when a patient’s BMI is within a healthy range, maintaining optimal nutrition is critical for overall physical and mental well-being. Consuming adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables is crucial for preventing chronic diseases, supporting cognitive function, and regulating mood. However, many young adults are unaware of daily dietary recommendations for vegetable intake.
The CDC (2023) advises adults to consume between 2 to 3 cups of vegetables and 1.5 to 2 cups of fruits every day. Unfortunately, national statistics reveal that fewer than 10% of adults achieve these guidelines.
Smith et al. (2021) demonstrated that increasing fruit and vegetable consumption not only improves physiological markers such as inflammation and cardiovascular health but also boosts emotional well-being. This positive mood effect may arise from both the biological impact of nutrient-rich foods and the psychological benefits associated with making healthier dietary choices.
This evidence underscores the need for nutritional counseling even among individuals who appear healthy. Encouraging the patient to consume three to five servings of vegetables daily can lead to better energy levels, improved mood stability, and a reduced likelihood of developing chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
Supporting Oral Health
Although the patient visits the dentist regularly, he admits that flossing and using mouthwash are not part of his daily routine. This gap highlights an opportunity for preventive oral health education. Effective oral care extends beyond brushing and includes flossing and antimicrobial rinsing to eliminate interdental plaque and lower bacterial populations.
Recent research advocates for integrating oral health screening into routine primary care visits. According to Ahern et al. (2024), such interdisciplinary approaches can detect oral health issues early, especially for patients who see medical providers more often than dental professionals. This practice promotes equitable access to dental care and timely interventions.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to serious systemic problems. Conditions like periodontal disease and dental caries may escalate to systemic infections such as infective endocarditis when oral bacteria enter the bloodstream. Educating patients about brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and consistent use of mouthwash is essential for preventing these complications and supporting holistic health.
To support sustainable lifestyle changes, two SMART goals were developed—targeting dietary improvements and oral hygiene habits.
SMART Criteria | Goal 1: Increasing Vegetable Intake | Goal 2: Enhancing Oral Hygiene Practices |
Specific (S) | The patient will add at least one serving of vegetables to each meal and consume vegetable-based snacks daily. | The patient will brush, floss, and use mouthwash twice daily as part of a full oral care routine. |
Measurable (M) | Daily vegetable intake will be monitored using measuring cups or a food scale to ensure correct portions. | The patient will record brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use in a journal or a mobile health app. |
Achievable (A) | The goal involves a gradual increase from three to five servings of vegetables per day. | The patient will obtain necessary oral hygiene products and set reminders to support habit formation. |
Relevant (R) | Increased vegetable intake improves physical health by reducing chronic disease risks and enhances mood. | Regular oral hygiene lowers the risks of gum disease, cavities, and systemic infections. |
Timely (T) | Within four weeks, the patient will consistently consume five servings of vegetables daily. | Within one month, the patient will establish a twice-daily oral hygiene routine. |
Goal Statements:
Health promotion should extend beyond managing illness to include proactive lifestyle enhancements. Although this patient shows no current health abnormalities, prioritizing preventive strategies such as balanced nutrition and comprehensive oral hygiene can improve both physical and mental health outcomes. Through setting achievable SMART goals and providing targeted education, healthcare providers empower patients to maintain wellness, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Ahern, J., Sullivan, L., Tam, C., Keating Bench, K., & Le Cook, B. (2024). Oral health screening by MassHealth Accountable Care Organizations: An opportunity for equity-focused interventions. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 98(3), 25–30.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Adults meeting fruit and vegetable intake recommendations — United States. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/
Smith, E., Stevenson, R., Dudley, L., & Francis, H. (2021). The relationship of health-related expectancies, fruit and vegetable intake, and positive mood: Expectancies are important, but not in the way you expect. British Food Journal, 124(3), 885–897. https://doi.org/10.1108/bfj-03-2021-0289
