Nurse's Pocket Guide

chronic low SELF-ESTEEM
• Involve in activities/exercise program, promote socialization.
Enhances sense of well-being/can help energize client.
NURSING PRIORITY NO. 3. To promote wellness (Teaching/
Discharge Considerations):
• Discuss inaccuracies in self-perception with client/SO(s).
• Model behaviors being taught, involving client in goal setting
and decision making. Facilitates client’s developing trust in
own unique strengths.
• Prepare client for events/changes that are expected, when
possible.
• Provide structure in daily routine/care activities.
• Emphasize importance of grooming and personal hygiene.
Assist in developing skills as indicated (e.g., makeup classes,
dressing for success). People feel better about themselves
when they present a positive outer appearance.
• Assist client to identify goals that are personally achievable.
Provide positive feedback for verbal and behavioral indications
of improved self-view. Increases likelihood of success
and commitment to change.
• Refer to vocational/employment counselor, educational
resources, as appropriate. Assists with development of
social/vocational skills, enhancing sense of self-concept and
inner locus of control.
• Encourage participation in classes/activities/hobbies that
client enjoys or would like to experience.
• Reinforce that this therapy is a brief encounter in overall life
of the client/SO(s), with continued work and ongoing support
being necessary to sustain behavior changes/personal
growth.
• Refer to classes (e.g., assertiveness training, positive selfimage,
communication skills) to assist with learning new
skills to promote self-esteem.
• Refer to counseling/therapy, mental health, and special needs
support groups, as indicated.
Documentation Focus
ASSESSMENT/REASSESSMENT
• Individual findings, including early memories of negative
evaluations (self and others), subsequent/precipitating failure
events.
• Effects on interactions with others/lifestyle.
• Specific medical/safety issues.
• Motivation for/willingness to change.
Information in brackets added by the authors to clarify and enhance
the use of nursing diagnoses.
590 Cultural Collaborative Community/Home Care