In: Nursing
The Betty Neuman model suggests that the patient viewed as client is characterized by four variables :
Physiological ,psychological, socio-cultural, spiritual.
nursing intervention to reduce the stressors is emphasized in the model.Neuman’s process contains three basic parts: nursing diagnosis, nursing goals, and nursing outcomes.
In case study of a patient with multiple sclerosis which is an autoimmune disorder causing neurological damages, the above mentioned variables or stressors seen in patient were as follows :
Physiological stressors:
1. Not tolerating any activity associated with weakness, fatigue and irritability.
Aim of the nurse: helping the client carry out activities without depending on others.
Interventions: avoiding exposure to environments with high temperature, to many activities, hunger, stress which exacerbate fatigue.
2. Eating disorders, eating less than what the body requires. Anorexia nausea.
Aim of the nurse: improving the condition of patient's nutrition, appetite.
Interventions: Removal of irritant materials or odor. Resting before each meal to avoid fatigue. Gentle position changing to avoid nausea.
3. Disorders in sleep pattern associated with urge to urinate, headache and flushing.
Aim of the nurse: improving status and quality of sleep and rest.
Interventions: reducing fluid intake in evening and less consumption of caffeine.
Psychological stressor
1. Disruption of concept of self associated with disease, decreased muscle strength, power and weakness.
Aim of the nurse : helping the patient find incentives to continue with activities despite limitations of power and energy. Encouraging patient towards self efficacy.
Intervention: allowing the patient to express moods, behaviour, feeling and encouraging her to talk to other patients of multiple sclerosis.
2. Stress and anxiety of being away from children, family
Aim of the nurse: helping patient to control stress and anxiety.
Interventions: phone calls to families. Learning relaxation techniques and distraction of negative thoughts.
3. Changes in sexual pattern associated with fatigue due to disease.
Aim of the nurse: helping patient have a satisfactory relationship as possible.
Interventions: Family counselling, talk to spouse about emotional support.
Socio-cultural
Unable to maintain a socially equipped life style.
Aim of the nurse :The patient/client participates in artistic activities and believes that she will be mentally calm.
Intervention: encouraging patient to attend multiple sclerosis sports classes.