While conducting a health history, a client states, "I am healthy, I don't know why I have to be here to get a check-up."

Question

However, the client reports, type 2 diabetes mellitus and an unhealed ulcer on the left foot. Based on this information, which statement by the nurse is the most appropriate?
1. "I feel that you are in denial about your health status."
2. "Tell me about your definition of being healthy."
3. "Do you understand what diabetes is?"
4. "Is there anything else you are not telling me?"

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2
A client will have his or her own definition of health, illness, and wellness. The individual's concept of health and wellness is influenced by many factors, including age, gender, race, family, culture, religion, socioeconomic conditions, environment, previous experiences, and self-expectations. More information would be needed before the nurse could attribute the client's viewpoint as denial or lack of knowledge. The client's history of type 2 diabetes is a valid area requiring further investigation but the nurse must first ascertain the client's definition of healthy. There is also not enough information to determine the client's withholding of information to the nurse.