Steps Taken to Complete the Assessment
The assessment included the selection of a method for working with a patient experiencing severe abdominal pain. Physical methods and other medical tests have been proposed as a potential approach. It was necessary to assess the psychological state of the patient. The primary knowledge gained during the work on this task was the understanding of the importance of establishing a trusting relationship between a nurse and a patient.
Potential Difficulties and Questions in the Assessment Process
The importance of establishing the trusting relationship necessary for a correct diagnosis has become helpful knowledge. I needed a general assessment of the situation, a review of physical methods for assessing abdominal pain, and adherence to recommendations for further diagnosis. Potential difficulties that may arise during this evaluation are based on the patient’s depressed state (Michaelides & Zis, 2019). The key to overcoming the difficulties of primary diagnosis should be a trusting relationship between the patient and the nurse.
Strategies to Overcome Challenges in Completing the Assessment
Strategies for establishing trust may include effective self-presentation, active listening, and honesty with the patient. For example, self-presentation should include the stated goals of the interaction. Active listening involves effective communication, allowing the patient to explain their condition in detail (Drossman et al., 2021). Honesty should include an accurate explanation, such as a warning about possible pain on palpation.
Impact of Cultural Backgrounds and Belief Systems on Healthcare Assessments
Examples of Cultural Influences on Patient Care
When conducting this type of assessment, it is necessary to consider the cultural background. For example, different cultures may imply various attitudes towards pain, which leads to an inadequate patient’s self-esteem (Stilwell & Harman, 2019). In addition, the belief system can cause the patient to become embarrassed, leading to the suppression of symptoms. From a Christian perspective, a nurse can improve the relationship with the patient by demonstrating openness and a genuine desire to help.
Enhancing Nurse-Patient Relationships Through a Christian Worldview
In conclusion, a nurse must build a trusting relationship when working with acute pain patients. Competent self-presentation, attentive listening, and transparency with the patient can be strategies for building trust. When using these strategies, the patient can reduce the level of anxiety, which will allow more effective diagnosis. Trust between patient and nurse must be the basis for proper communication, diagnosis, and treatment.
References
Drossman, D. A., Chang, L., Deutsch, J. K., Ford, A. C., Halpert, A., Kroenke, K., & Sperber, A. (2021). A review of the evidence and recommendations on communication skills and the patient–provider relationship: A Rome foundation working team report. Gastroenterology, 161(5), 1670-1688. Web.
Michaelides, A., & Zis, P. (2019). Depression, anxiety and acute pain: links and management challenges. Postgraduate Medicine, 131(7), 438-444. Web.
Stilwell, P., & Harman, K. (2019). An enactive approach to pain: Beyond the biopsychosocial model. Phenomenology and the Cognitive Sciences, 18(4), 637-665. Web.