A health assessment is a detailed plan of care designed to identify the specific needs of the patient. Whether a patient is residing in a skilled nursing facility or a healthcare system, a health assessment will identify the right care options. The assessment process begins with a physical examination. It will then focus on the patient’s health history and health status. Once the health assessment is complete, the care team will make recommendations based on this information.
A health assessment can be conducted at a participating local health department or at a doctor’s office. The health assessment team can use the patient’s health history, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and past medical history to tailor care. They will also consider the patient’s genetic make-up and discuss disease prevention and health promotion. A health assessment will also help identify opportunities for patient education. It is the first step in identifying the best care options for patients.
Health assessments are often structured screening tools used in primary care settings. They allow the health care team to understand the needs of the population and design a treatment plan for each individual patient. They can be completed on paper or computer. A health assessment may ask questions about a patient’s general health, their physical activity, and any underlying conditions. In some cases, the health assessment can even identify safety concerns. The assessment results will help the health care team determine the best care options for a patient.
A health assessment may also be conducted for a special population. This includes a child, an infant, or an elderly patient. The health assessment will require a nurse to develop rapport with a patient and explain the purpose of the visit. This will increase the chances of the patient sharing their health concerns and symptoms. This type of health assessment is critical for managing a patient’s health. This is especially important if the patient is elderly or pregnant.
A health assessment may include a series of tests. The first step is a health history. A nurse will also take a detailed physical examination. The next step is to ask questions about lifestyle. This information is important because it will help a nurse determine what is healthy for a patient. During the interview, the nurse will also ask about any recent injuries, symptoms, and concerns. The nurse will also ask questions regarding a patient’s mental and emotional health.
A health assessment may also be ongoing. In this case, a healthcare professional will check the patient on a regular basis, ask about medications, and plan treatment based on that information. Sometimes, a health assessment will be performed by a patient’s primary care physician, but if the condition continues, the healthcare team will likely need to call in a medical specialist. The results of a health assessment can be valuable for the patient’s treatment.
As healthcare continues to become more complex, a health assessment will continue to become an essential part of healthcare. A health assessment helps identify opportunities for preventative care and promote healthier lifestyles for an aging population. Fortunately, there are a number of accredited programs to help you develop the necessary skills for a career in health assessment. The Texas A&M International University program is an affordable and flexible way to get a degree in the field. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum in health assessment and nursing research.
