31. Vulnerable Populations

Question 1

everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be healthier

Answer 1

health equity

Question 2

barriers that prevent individuals and populations from attaining maximal health

Answer 2

health inequities

Question 3

examples of health inequities

Answer 3

• poverty
• discrimination
• lack of access to decent jobs
• quality education and housing
• safe environment
• health care

Question 4

What is the biggest indicator of poor health outcomes?

Answer 4

poverty

Question 5

First step to addressing health inequities

Answer 5

recognizing inherent value of all people and populations

Question 6

degree to which a person is unable to anticipate, cope with or resist or recover from potential or actual stressors

Answer 6

vulnerability

Question 7

people who are at greatest risk of poor health status and health care access; have multiple cumulative risks but also have resilience (that will eventually break down)

Answer 7

vulnerable populations

Question 8

outcomes of vulnerability

Answer 8

• poor morbidity and mortality outcomes
• high prevalence of chronic illness and communicable diseases
• high mortality rates from crime/violence
• cycle of vulnerability

Question 9

examples of vulnerable populations

Answer 9

• poor/homeless
• pregnant teens
• migrant workers and immigrants
• people w/ mental health problems
• people who abuse substances
• people w/ communicable diseases
• HIV/STDs/Hep B
• Incarceration
• LGTBQ

Question 10

5 levels of the cycle of vulnerability

Answer 10

• individual
• interpersonal
• organizational
• community
• public policy

Question 11

5 nursing approaches to equity in the community

Answer 11

• comprehensive services
• advocacy
• social justice
• linguistically appropriate health care (remove language barrier)
• case management

Question 12

planning and implementing care for vulnerable populations

Answer 12

• create trusting environment
• show respect, concern, and compassion
• no assumptions
• coordinate services and advocate for access
• focus on prevention
• know when to assist patient and encourage them to be independent
• know the resources available
• develop your own support network

Question 13

resources found in most communities

Answer 13

• health department
• mental health centers
• food/clothing banks
• missions and shelters
• nurse-managed clinics
• social service agencies
• church-sponsored assistance
• free clinics