Question

Using the health belief model, how can nurses encourage patients to make immediate and permanent behavior changes; particularly as they relate to lifestyle choices?

Answer 1

Health belief model (HBM)-

- It is a psychological health behavior change model developed to explain and predict health-related behaviors, particularly in regard to the uptake of health services.

Nurses can encourage patients to make behavior changes related to llifestyle choices by--

- They can encourage patients to make lifestyle changes but it can be difficult, especially when the patient doesn’t understand, or realize that changes need to be made.

- So for this, Nurses must educate them on what changes need to be made, and also educate to themselves.

- The health belief model shows us that it is important to know how the patient perceives their illness, and to understand & interpret the patient may have barriers that interfere with how they see their health, such as cultural differences, and beliefs.

- Taking into consideration of these factors is necessary while educating the patient on their illness, and on the importance of lifestyle changes.

- Health education involves providing relevant information & facilitating health-related behavior change.

- Role of nurse is by using health-education principles assist Patients in achieving their health goals so as to Improve and maintain a health.

- By encouraging and motivating them, surely they will achieve high standard of living in future.

- Keeping them on track while implementing healthy lifestyle is necessary for which positive reinforcement and reward system will work effectively.

- In terms of lifestyle, divert their minds in positive direction so that they won't get off the track.

- Health education using health belief model for Lifestyle modifications will be-

* Consideration of demographic variables: age, sex, ethinicity

* Perceived beliefs: Modifications for lifestyle by consideration of beliefs.

* Cues to action: Mass media campaign, advise from others, remainder postcards by physicians, newspaper or magzine articles.

* Likelihood of taking the recommended preventive health Action.

• Diet: Eat well balanced diet with fresh fruits & vegetables. Avoid high calories & sugar in diet. Eat well with small frequent mealings. Drink 7-8 glasses of water/day.
• Exercise: Daily or 4 days in week is mandatory. Brisk walking is the best exercise. Practice Yoga & meditation.
• Hygiene: Daily hygiene & Activities of daily livings.
• Stop use of alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco,etc.
• Rest & Sleep: Daily 6-8 hrs sleep is important.
• Reduce stress & practice stress management techniques.
• Twice yearly health check up
• Medication: If taking, then take on time, do not skip it, if missed then do not take the double dose.
• Keep self focused on the goals of lifestyle modifications.
• Practice other activities in leisure time.

- Through this education, the Nurses can encourage behavior changes of healthy lifestyle practices.