Family Health

Question 1

Applying theoretical frameworks to families - systems theory

Answer 1

a family is a system, and the individuals within it are subsystems
families are open systems, constantly interacting with the outside world
a family system relies on input (incoming information, ideas, etc), which is processed (throughput), leading to output. there is also feedback to regulate the system.
negative feedback inhibits change, positive feedback encourages it.

Question 2

Applying theoretical frameworks to families -structural/functional theory

Answer 2

structure - family membership and intra-family relationships
function - adding and socialising new members, promoting family purpose, providing care and services to family members

Question 3

What is a genogram?

Answer 3

a pictoral representation of the family unit, showing genetic or adoptive ties, parents to children, and the health status of each member

Question 4

What is an ecomap?

Answer 4

a visual representation of how the family interacts within the community, showing their energy expenditure, the strength of the ties, and whether the ties are beneficial or draining to the family unit

Question 5

Different family types

Answer 5

• tradition (mum, dad, kids)
• blended
• lgbt
• single-parent
• dual-career
• adolescent parents
• foster or adoptive
• intra-generational
• cohabiting
• single adults living alone

Question 6

What are the purposes of a family assessment by a nurse?

Answer 6

• determine level of family functioning
• clarify family interaction patterns
• identify family strengths and weaknesses
• determine health status of the family unit and it’s individual members

Question 7

Risk factors for family health problems

Answer 7

• maturity level (children and the elderly most at risk. adults looking after both young children and elderly parents at risk of carer-stress)
• hereditary factors
• sex
• race
• lifestyle
• sociological factors such as poverty

Question 8

nursing diagnoses relating to family health needs/problems

Answer 8

• interrupted family processes
• readiness for enhanced family coping
• disabled family coping
• impaired parenting
• impaired home maintenance
• caregiver role strain

Question 9

Types of disability

Answer 9

physical
intellectual
mental illness
sensory
neurological
learning disability
physical disfigurement
immunological