Mental Health Nursing
patient with a spinal cord injury states, "I have no constitution; I can’t do anything for myself." Which of…
patient with a spinal cord injury states, "I have no constitution; I can’t do anything for myself." Which of the following best describes this patient condition?
Explanation
Core Concept: Powerlessness is a psychosocial nursing diagnosis where a patient perceives a lack of control over their situation, frequently observed in chronic or debilitating conditions like spinal cord injuries.
Clinical Presentation:
- Verbalizations of having no control or inability to perform self-care
- Frustration, apathy, withdrawal, or depression
- Passive behavior and reliance on others for basic needs
Diagnosis: Clinical assessment through active listening, psychological evaluation, and standardized coping/depression assessment tools.
Management: Acute: Validate the patient's feelings, provide emotional support, and encourage participation in small, achievable care decisions to foster a sense of control. Long-term/Definitive: Comprehensive rehabilitation, occupational therapy, counseling, and empowering the patient to regain autonomy in activities of daily living (ADLs).