Name
Western Governors University
D222 Comprehensive Health Assessment
Prof. Name
Date
What are the assessment findings that support the chosen health promotion activities?
During the comprehensive health evaluation, Nick appeared as a generally healthy adult with no chronic conditions or regular medication use. His occupation requires significant physical exertion, which helps him maintain an active lifestyle. Nick is motivated to preserve his health as he ages and shows openness to adopting preventive health measures.
Despite this, there are notable areas for improvement, particularly in his oral hygiene habits. Nick revealed he has not visited a dentist in over two years and brushes his teeth only once daily in the morning. Fatigue from work often causes him to skip his nightly dental care routine. This behavior poses a risk for oral health problems, such as cavities and gum disease, which can also lead to systemic complications like cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and endocarditis (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Since the mouth is a critical gateway to both the digestive and respiratory systems, maintaining oral health is crucial for overall wellness. Educating Nick on these connections and encouraging twice-daily brushing and daily flossing can reduce his risks of oral and systemic diseases.
Moreover, although Nick’s job involves physical activity, it lacks structured cardiovascular or strength training exercises. Research suggests that occupational physical activity does not provide the same health benefits as deliberate exercise routines (Anderson & Durstine, 2019). Regular, planned exercise is vital for preventing chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart conditions. Introducing a fitness regimen incorporating aerobic and strength exercises will support Nick’s cardiovascular health, improve endurance, and promote longevity.
Summary of Key Health Findings and Recommendations
Finding | Health Implication | Recommended Health Promotion Activity |
Infrequent dental visits and brushing once daily | Increased risk of gum disease, dental caries, and systemic infections | Improve oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily; schedule regular dental check-ups |
Physically active job but no structured exercise | May not achieve optimal cardiovascular fitness or long-term health benefits | Incorporate regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises |
What are the specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely goals for each health promotion activity?
To ensure practical and sustainable health improvements, specific SMART goals were developed collaboratively with Nick. These goals are tailored to fit his lifestyle and address his key health needs.
Goal Number | Health Promotion Activity | SMART Goal Description |
Goal 1 | Enhance oral hygiene | Specific (S): Brush teeth twice daily and floss once daily to reduce risks of oral and systemic diseases. Measurable (M): Brush after breakfast and before bed each day. Achievable (A): Use phone reminders at 7:30 AM and 8:30 PM. Relevant (R): Understanding the impact of oral health on overall wellness motivates adherence. Timely (T): Start brushing twice daily three days a week, progressing to a full week within one month. |
Goal 2 | Increase physical activity | Specific (S): Engage in cardiovascular exercise at least three times weekly before work to boost endurance and heart health. Measurable (M): Track sessions, maintaining heart rate above 140 bpm for 15–20 minutes per workout. Achievable (A): Three sessions per week is manageable to avoid fatigue. Relevant (R): Morning workouts suit his schedule better than evenings. Timely (T): Gradually increase treadmill time by 10 minutes weekly, adding days until reaching 35 minutes per session, five times a week. |
Anderson, E., & Durstine, J. L. (2019). Physical activity, exercise, and chronic diseases: A brief review. Sports Medicine and Health Science, 1(1), 3–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smhs.2019.08.006
Mayo Clinic. (2021, October 28). Oral health: A window to your overall health. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
