As a public health nurse at a free clinic, you are assessing and interviewing a 21-year-old woman who has come to the clinic because she doesn’t have any energy and hasn’t felt good in weeks. During the interview, you learn that she averages one meal per day, smokes up to two packs of cigarettes per day, and rummages through trash to find items she can sell to purchase food, snacks, and cigarettes. She admits to using street drugs every once in a while when she can find someone who will share with her. She admits her life is a mess and she doesn’t know how to make it better.

What data can you gather based on available client information?

What questions should you ask yourself while interviewing this client?

During planning, how can you, as the nurse, best assist this client?

What are the potential strategies that would assist the client to a “better” life?

SOLUTION

Based on the available client information, as a public health nurse, you can gather several types of data:

1. Nutritional Status: Assess the client’s nutritional intake, including the frequency and types of meals consumed. Determine if there are any signs of malnutrition or deficiencies.
2. Substance Use: Evaluate the extent of the client’s cigarette smoking and street drug use, including frequency, quantity, and types of substances used.
3. Economic Status: Explore the client’s financial situation, including sources of income, expenses, and any financial challenges.
4. Social Support: Determine the client’s social support network, including relationships with family, friends, and community resources.
5. Mental Health: Assess the client’s mental health status, including feelings of hopelessness, depression, or anxiety.

During the interview with this client, some questions to ask yourself include:

1. What social determinants of health may be contributing to the client’s current situation?
2. How might the client’s socioeconomic status be impacting their access to resources and ability to make healthy choices?
3. What underlying factors may be driving the client’s substance use and unhealthy behaviors?
4. What potential barriers to change may the client face, and how can they be addressed?

During planning, as the nurse, you can best assist this client by:

1. Conducting a comprehensive assessment to identify the client’s strengths, needs, and goals.
2. Collaborating with the client to develop a person-centered care plan that addresses their physical, emotional, social, and economic needs.
3. Providing education and support to help the client make informed decisions about nutrition, substance use, and overall health.
4. Connecting the client with appropriate community resources, such as food assistance programs, addiction treatment services, mental health counseling, and housing support.
5. Empowering the client to take control of their health and make positive changes by setting achievable goals and providing ongoing support and encouragement.

Potential strategies to assist the client to a “better” life may include:

1. Providing access to nutritious food through food assistance programs or community resources.
2. Offering smoking cessation support and resources to help the client quit smoking.
3. Referring the client to substance abuse treatment programs or support groups for individuals struggling with addiction.
4. Assisting the client in accessing mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, to address underlying emotional issues and improve coping skills.
5. Collaborating with social services agencies to address the client’s housing and financial needs and provide assistance in securing stable housing and employment opportunities.
6. Establishing a supportive and trusting relationship with the client to facilitate ongoing engagement and motivation for change.