The Role of the Nurse in Health Promotion

Health promotion encompasses activities that help people change their lifestyle in order to move toward a state of optimal health (ODonnell, 1986). I. Benefits derived from health promotion: a. Decreased medical costs and decreased morbidity b. Increases the quality of life and life expectancy c. Provides a solution to health care dilemma Domains Fundamental to Nursing Practice: Internal and external factors, which can be considered separately or together, can influence whether an individual achieves a state of optimal health or wellness. These factors can be classified in terms of domains and dimensions that arm the nurse with a holistic approach to nursing practice, as follows: a. Biological domain. Physiologic and genetic factors can influence our susceptibility to disease and serve as predictors of potential health problem. b. Psychological domain. The mental health of a person and physical illness are closely associated and is more evident when an individual responds to stress. A persons perception of health and well-being are reflected in behavior and attitude; negative perceptions about his body limitations resulting from illness may hinder the ability to comprehend needed instruction and limit the benefit of health teaching. Self-knowledge and emotional stability are necessary to initiate healthy behaviors. Clients must experience realistic perceptions of self, family, and the environment to develop an awareness of potential stressors and easy to adapt and cope with them. (Johnson, 1997). c. Sociological domain. Social mores often affect the health practices of an individual within a community. Trusting in the healthcare professional and valuing ones health are the foundation of health promotion practices. Accessibility to health care is an additional sociological factor influencing positive or negative outcomes of health promotion. Economic factors must also be considered. Lack of information is also a barrier to healthcare for persons living in rural, underdeveloped communities. Madeleine Leininger (1978) recognizes societys influence on health and its cultural definitions. d. Environmental domain. Primary environmental hazards are found in the home, worksite, and community. Safety is a chief concern in all these areas but especially in the home. Potential hazards are often overlooked until an accidental drowning, fall, or burn occurs. Statistics show that the home is often the most dangerous place encountered (National Safety Council, 1998). Educational programs and community assessments by health care professionals on the hazards found within our own backyard could prevent accidents that occur every year and take peoples lives. The nurse is in a unique position to raise awareness of the importance of environmental factors in promoting health.

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