Introduction
Nursing Diagnoses are important part of the nursing process. They are based on patient’s health assessment among ages, genders and cultures, and reflect specific responses to actual or potential health problems. Low Chronic Self-Esteem, a nursing diagnosis, is one such example that needs to be managed appropriately.
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
NANDA defines Low Chronic Self-Esteem as “a state in which an individual perceives himself or herself inadequate, unworthy, and/or incompetent.” It is commonly seen among the elderly and in individuals with physical disabilities.
Defining Characteristics (Subjectives & Objectives)
Subjectives:
- Expresses feelings of inadequacy
- Feelings of sadness, low self-worth
- Guilty feelings associated with past incidents
- Feelings of revenge against self or others
Objectives:
- Depressed attitude
- Low self-confidence
- Negative body language
- Reluctance to participate in activities
- Difficulty in making decisions
- General life experiences
- Pharmaceutical agents
- Psychiatric illness
- Spiritual distress
Explanation: Low chronic self-esteem can arise due to an individual’s general life experiences, medication, psychiatric illness, or spiritual distress.
Risk Population
The elderly, people with disabilities, and those who suffer from psychiatric illness are at a higher risk for developing low self-esteem.
Explanation: Individuals belonging to these populations tend to have more difficulty participating in activities, exercising self-control, and expressing their feelings, resulting in feelings of inadequacy. This puts them at greater risk for developing low self-esteem.
Associated Problems
Associated problems related to low self-esteem include depression and social isolation.
Explanation: Low chronic self-esteem can lead to feelings of depression and lack of motivation, resulting in social isolation and difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
Suggestions of Use
Nurses should encourage positive self-talk and self-affirmation in order to boost self-esteem.
Explanation: Through positive self-talk and affirmations, nurses can help patients become aware of their strengths and begin to believe in themselves, thus boosting self-esteem.
Suggested Alternative Nursing Diagnosis
- Deficient Community Health Coping
- Spiritual Distress
- Risk for Altered Spirituality
- Risk for Impaired Relationships
Explanation: These alternative diagnoses are linked to Low Chronic Self-Esteem, and address other dimensions of patients’ mental and social wellbeing.
Usage Tips
- Be patient and offer emotional support.
- Encourage relevant activities.
- Encourage significant others to provide support.
- Promote self-care activities.
- Refer patient to counseling.
NOC Results
- Body Image
- Self-Esteem
- Behavioral Regulation
- Interpersonal Relations
- Family Coping
Explanation: These NOC results indicate the degree of improved self-esteem in patients after proper diagnosis and treatment.
NIC Interventions
- Assessment of Emotional State
- Behavioral Assertion Training
- Flexible Goal Setting
- Coaching
- Conflict Resolution
Explanation: By assessing emotional state, providing behavioral and interpersonal training, setting achievable goals, and providing coaching and conflict resolution, nurses can directly influence the patient’s self-esteem.
Conclusion & FAQ
Low Chronic Self-Esteem Diagnosis is one that needs to be managed appropriately. Nurses should take into account myriad factors such as engaging in positive self-talk, providing emotional support, encouraging relevant activities and referring to a counselor. By doing so, they can ensure best outcomes in terms of restoring and improving a patient’s self-esteem.
Do nursing staff have to have specialized training to detect Low Chronic Self-Esteem?
Yes, nursing staff need to be trained on how to detect Low Chronic Self-Esteem. This can be done through evidence-based education, workshops, and assessment tools.
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