Vulnerable populations are those most likely to develop health problems and experience poorer outcomes because of limited access to care and a wide variety of other stressors

Question

Therefore, when caring for a patient from a vulnerable group, it is most important for the nurse to focus on:
a. Methods to connect the patient with a social worker
b. Family members and their interactions in planning care
c. Identifying the patient's difficulties and risks
d. Identifying the patient's strengths and resources

Answer 1

D
Vulnerable populations are groups who are more likely to develop health problems and experience poorer outcomes because of limited access to care. Examples of vulnerable populations include the homeless, the poor, children, the elderly, and some ethnic and minority groups. When caring for patients from vulnerable groups, it is most important that the focus be on the patient's strengths and resources and not exclusively on the difficulties and risks. Working with family members is important in developing a plan of care, as is contacting a social worker if the situation warrants; however, the focus is first on the patient.