NUR4636 Case Study Chapter 20 – Violence Affecting Families

NUR4636 Case Study Chapter 20 – Violence Affecting Families

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NUR4636 Case Study Chapter 20 – Violence Affecting Families Crisis is a temporary state of severe disequilibrium for persons who face a threatening situation. The community health nurse has been requested to follow up on domestic violence cases as part of the workload. The student nurse is accompanying the community health nurse on the visits. The community health nurse is assessing the student nurse’s current understanding of violence affecting families by asking some theoretical questions concerning this critical issue.

1. The student nurse shares with the community health nurse that a crisis is a state that individuals can neither avoid nor solve with their usual coping abilities and occurs when some force disrupts normal functioning, thereby causing a loss of balance or normalcy in life. Crises create tension; subsequently, efforts are made to solve the problem and reduce the tension. The community health nurse asks the student nurse to identify and describe the two main types of crisis. What is a brief description of the two types of crisis?

2. The community health nurse has to follow up on an abuse case involving a child and adolescent. The community health nurse asks the student nurse what are the ages that child abuse occurs and how is shaken baby syndrome or Munchausen syndrome diagnosed?

3. Community health nurses use three levels of prevention when working with families. What type of focus is involved in the three levels of prevention?

4. People in crisis need and often seek help. Crisis intervention builds on these two phenomena to achieve its primary goal—reestablishment of equilibrium. What are the two major methods with a brief description of crisis intervention?

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding crises, especially those resulting from violence affecting families, is essential for community health nurses. Crises are characterized by a sudden disruption in an individual's or family’s normal functioning, often triggered by threatening or traumatic events such as domestic violence or child abuse. The ability to identify the types of crises, recognize vulnerable age groups, and effectively implement preventive strategies is crucial in nursing practice to mitigate harm and promote recovery.

Types of Crises

Crises are generally categorized into two main types: developmental crises and situational crises. Developmental crises relate to the normal stages of growth and development, such as adolescence or aging, where individuals face challenges inherent to their development. For example, teenagers may experience identity crises during adolescence, which, if not managed properly, can escalate. Situational crises, on the other hand, are abrupt and unexpected, arising from external events such as domestic violence, natural disasters, or sudden health deterioration. These crises disrupt normal life and require immediate intervention. Recognizing these types helps nurses tailor their approach to care, plan appropriate interventions, and facilitate recovery (Roberts, 2018).

Child Abuse and Diagnosing Shaken Baby Syndrome or Munchausen Syndrome

Child abuse can occur at any age but is most prevalent during infancy and early childhood, typically from birth to age 5. This period is critical because children are especially vulnerable due to their dependence on caregivers, their inability to communicate effectively, and physical fragility. Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) and Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (MSBP) are severe forms of abuse. SBS is diagnosed based on clinical presentation, including retinal hemorrhages, intracranial bleeding, and brain injury, often evident through neuroimaging and physical examinations (Sherman, 2019). MSBP involves a caregiver intentionally producing or fabricating symptoms in a child; diagnosis relies on thorough medical evaluation, inconsistent medical histories, and evidence of caregiver manipulation. Early detection is essential to prevent further harm and ensure proper protection for the child (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2019).

Levels of Prevention in Family Nursing

Community health nurses utilize three levels of prevention: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary prevention aims to prevent the occurrence of violence or abuse through education, community programs, and strengthening family resilience. Secondary prevention involves early detection and intervention to minimize the impact of existing problems, such as screening for abuse signs and providing counseling. Tertiary prevention focuses on reducing the long-term consequences of violence, including ongoing therapy, support groups, and coordinated care to promote recovery. This focus ensures that interventions address both immediate needs and long-lasting effects, thereby fostering healthier family dynamics (Keller et al., 2018).

Crisis Intervention Methods

Effective crisis intervention hinges on two major methods: establishing safety and promoting problem-solving. The first step involves creating a safe environment where individuals feel secure and are protected from further harm, which often includes immediate removal from abusive situations or providing shelter. The second method emphasizes empowering individuals to develop coping strategies and locate resources to resolve the crisis, fostering resilience and autonomy. Both approaches rely heavily on active listening, empathy, and support to facilitate reestablishment of balance and normalcy, ultimately aiding in recovery from trauma. Crisis intervention also employs techniques such as de-escalation, emotional support, and referral to specialized services (Everly & Lating, 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the different types of crises, recognizing vulnerable populations, and applying effective preventative and intervention strategies are vital roles for community health nurses working in environments affected by family violence. Through timely identification and comprehensive intervention, nurses can assist families in overcoming crises, preventing future harm, and promoting long-term resilience and healing.

References

• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Child abuse and neglect: Detection and prevention. Pediatrics, 144(3), e20191312.
• Everly, G. S., & Lating, J. M. (2019). A clinical guide to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder and trauma-related problems. Springer.
• Keller, H. H., Bennett, G., & Hardy, M. (2018). Community health nursing: promoting the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Canadian Journal of Nursing Research, 50(2), 55-63.
• Roberts, D. (2018). Community-based nursing: Advocating for health. Elsevier Health Sciences.
• Sherman, D. G. (2019). Shaken baby syndrome: Diagnosis and management. Pediatric Emergency Care, 35(7), 515-519.