Note: you need to indicate time frame/target as objective must be measurable.
| Nursing Interventions | Scientific Rationale |
|---|---|
| Assess perception of change in structure or function of body part (also proposed change). | The extent of the response is more related to the value or importance the patient places on the part or function than the actual value or importance. |
| Assess impact of body image disturbance in relation to patient's developmental stage. | Adolescents and young adults may be particularly affected by changes in the structure or function of their bodies at a time when developmental changes are normally rapid, and at a time when developing social and intimate relationships are particularly important. |
| Note patient's behaviour regarding actual or perceived changed body part or function. | There is a broad range of normal behaviours associated with body image disturbance, ranging from totally ignoring the altered structure or function to preoccupation with it. |
| Acknowledge normalcy of emotional response to actual or perceived change in body structure or function. | Stages of grief over loss of a body part or function is normal, and typically involves a period of denial, the length of which varies from individual to individual. |
| Help patient identify actual changes. | Patients may perceive changes that are not present or real, or they may be placing unrealistic value on a body structure or function. |
| Encourage verbalization of positive or negative feelings about actual or perceived change. | It is worthwhile to encourage the patient to separate feelings about changes in body structure and/or function from feelings about self-worth. |
| Assist patient in incorporating actual changes into ADLs, social life, interpersonal relationships, and occupational activities. | Opportunities for positive feedback and success in social situations may hasten adaptation. |
| Demonstrate positive caring in routine activities. | Professional caregivers represent a microcosm of society, and their actions and behaviors are scrutinized as the patient plans to return to home, work, and other activities. |
| Help patient identify ways of coping that have been useful in the past. | Asking patients to remember other body image issues (i.e., getting glasses, wearing orthodontics, being pregnant, having a leg cast) and how they were managed may help patient adjust to the current issue. |
| Refer patient and caregivers to support groups comprised of individuals with similar alterations. | Lay persons in similar situations offer a different type of support, which is perceived as helpful. |
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