A patient is experiencing incisional pain after an operation. When using Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the nurse realizes that for the patient to return to a prehospitalized status, the patient needs to progress beyond which of the following?

Question

a. Belonging
b. Self-esteem
c. Self-actualization
d. Safety and security

Answer 1

D
Maslow described an ordering (hierarchy) of needs that motivate human behavior. This ordering is often depicted as a pyramid composed of five levels. When the most basic needs, such as hunger and oxygen, are met, the person strives to satisfy those needs for safety and security on the next highest level. Disturbances at lower levels interfere with the highest level, self-actualization or the realization of one's potential. Individuals need to satisfy each level before moving on to the next. Belonging occupies the third stage, where threats to relationships create anticipatory loneliness and alienation. Self-esteem occupies the fourth stage, and threats create alienation. Self-actualization is the highest level that one can achieve—the realization that one has reached his or her highest potential. Safety and security occupies the second stage, and threats to security (such as pain) produce feelings of insecurity.