LESSON 1
PATIENT RELATIONS
Section I. BASIC HUMAN NEEDS AND PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH
1-1.
INTRODUCTION
Health is one of our most precious possessions. The preservation of health is
met through the satisfaction of our basic human needs. Understanding the basic needs
of people, therefore, is essential for the practical nurse in planning for and meeting the
needs of the patient.
1-2.
PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH
a. Definition of Health.
(1) An individual's concept of health is a very personal thing. 0ne person
may consider himself to be healthy whenever he is not physically ill, while another may
consider himself to be healthy only when he is emotionally and physically "at his best."
A person's notion of health is influenced by a number of different factors or experiences,
such as family background, self-concept, religion, past experiences, and socioeconomic
status. It is important that you, as a practical nurse, keep this in mind when dealing with
your patient's, as well as your own, feelings and interactions.
(2) For purposes of this subcourse, we will define health as a state of
complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or
infirmity.
b. Total Health. Although the absence of disease and illness is, by anyone's
definition, essential to good health, it is, by no means, the only factor. Total health
includes all of the following aspects as well:
(1)
Social health. A sense of responsibility for the health and welfare of
others.
(2)
Mental health. A mind that grows, reasons, and adjusts to life situations.
(3)
Emotional health. Feelings and actions that bring one satisfaction.
(4)
Spiritual health. Inner peace and security in one's spiritual faith.
MD0905
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