Read chapter 20 of the class textbook and review the attached PowerPoint presentation. Once done answer the following questions;
1. In your own word and using the appropriate evidence-based references define family and describe the different types of family.
2. Identify characteristics of the family that have implications for community health nursing practice.
3. Discuss a model of care for families.
4. Describe strategies for moving from intervention at the family level to intervention at the aggregate level.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Family is an essential unit in society that plays a vital role in individuals’ health and well-being. As a medical professor, it is crucial to understand the concept of family and its implications for community health nursing practice. In this response, we will define family, describe different types of family, identify characteristics of the family that have implications for community health nursing practice, discuss a model of care for families, and describe strategies for moving from intervention at the family level to intervention at the aggregate level.
1. In your own words and using appropriate evidence-based references, define family and describe the different types of family.
Family can be defined as a group of individuals who are connected by blood, marriage, adoption, or emotional bonds, and live together as a unit. Families provide a supportive and nurturing environment for their members, playing a significant role in shaping their physical, mental, and social development.
There are various types of families, including nuclear families, extended families, single-parent families, blended families, and same-sex parent families. Nuclear families consist of a married couple and their biological or adopted children. Extended families include additional relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles who live together or in close proximity. Single-parent families are headed by one adult who may be divorced, widowed, or never married. Blended families are formed when parents remarry and bring children from previous relationships together. Same-sex parent families consist of couples of the same gender who have children through adoption, surrogacy, or assisted reproductive technologies.
References:
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Family history as a risk assessment tool. Retrieved from
– Ministry of Health. (2019). Family: Definition and typology. Retrieved from
2. Identify characteristics of the family that have implications for community health nursing practice.
Several characteristics of the family have implications for community health nursing practice:
a) Cultural and Ethnic Background: Families may have unique cultural beliefs, practices, and health behaviors that influence their health-seeking behaviors and treatment preferences. Community health nurses need to be culturally sensitive and knowledgeable to effectively provide care.
b) Socioeconomic Status: The socioeconomic status of a family can impact access to healthcare, health literacy, nutrition, and overall health outcomes. Community health nurses must consider socioeconomic factors when planning interventions and providing health education.
c) Family Dynamics: The dynamics within a family can affect health behaviors and decision-making processes. Understanding family roles, communication patterns, and relationships can help community health nurses assess and address health issues effectively.
d) Family Support Systems: The level of support and involvement from extended family members, friends, and the community can significantly impact the health and well-being of a family. Identifying available support systems is crucial in community health nursing practice.
e) Health Beliefs and Practices: Each family may have their own set of health beliefs, traditions, and practices. Community health nurses must respect and incorporate these beliefs into their care plans to promote acceptance and adherence.
References:
– Anderson, E. T., & McFarlane, J. (2018). Community as partner: Theory and practice in nursing (8th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
– Kaakinen, J. R., Coehlo, D. P., Steele, R., Robinson, M., Tabacco, A., & Hanson, S. M. (2020). Family health care nursing: Theory, practice, and research (7th ed.). F.A. Davis Company.
3. Discuss a model of care for families.
One model of care for families commonly used in community health nursing is the Calgary Family Assessment Model (CFAM). CFAM provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the functioning of families, their strengths, and areas of concern. It consists of three major categories:
a) Structural Assessment: This involves gathering information about the composition of the family, including members, relationships, and roles. It helps identify the family’s structure and how it may impact health outcomes.
b) Developmental Assessment: This category focuses on family life cycle stages, developmental tasks, and transitions. It helps nurses understand the developmental needs of families and potential stressors they may face.
c) Functional Assessment: This category evaluates how the family interacts, communicates, and solves problems. It assesses boundaries, adaptation, and patterns of interaction within the family.
By using CFAM, community health nurses can gain a holistic understanding of families, identify their strengths and challenges, and develop individualized care plans that promote health and well-being.
References:
– Wright, L. M., & Leahey, M. (2013). Nurses and families: A guide to family assessment and intervention (6th ed.). F.A. Davis Company.
– Bell, J. M., & Wright, L. M. (2011). The Calgary Family Assessment Model: How to assess and intervene with families. F.A. Davis Company.
4. Describe strategies for moving from intervention at the family level to intervention at the aggregate level.
When moving from intervention at the family level to intervention at the aggregate level, community health nurses can employ several strategies:
a) Collaboration with Community Organizations: By partnering with local community organizations such as schools, religious institutions, and social service agencies, nurses can extend their reach and provide interventions and education to larger groups of families.
b) Developing Support Groups: Organizing support groups for families dealing with similar health conditions or challenges can create a sense of belonging and facilitate the exchange of experiences and resources.
c) Health Promotion Campaigns: Engaging in health promotion campaigns at the community level can raise awareness and educate families about preventive measures and healthy behaviors.
d) Policy Advocacy: By advocating for policies that address social determinants of health and promote healthy family environments, nurses can contribute to systemic changes that benefit the well-being of families at an aggregate level.
e) Community-Based Participatory Research: Involving families in research activities, such as community health needs assessments, can empower them to actively participate in decision-making processes and contribute to the development of targeted interventions.
References:
– Maurer, F. A., & Smith, C. M. (2013). Community/public health nursing practice: Health for families and populations (5th ed.). Elsevier Saunders.
– Anderson, E. T., & McFarlane, J. (2018). Community as partner: Theory and practice in nursing (8th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
