Introduction for Nursing Diagnosis: Willingness To Improve Knowledge
Willingness to Improve Knowledge is a nursing diagnosis which focuses on the ability of a patient to acquire new knowledge and processes. The NANDA definition of this nursing diagnosis is "The state in which the client has the desire and ability to increase understanding of health care needs and processes."
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Organized as follows:
Defining Characteristics
Subjective:
- Expresses need or desire for new or additional information
- Verbalizes limited understanding of diagnostic tests
- Reports feelings of inadequacy related to health care knowledge
Objective:
- Asks questions
- Able to understand and interpret health care information
- Able to interpret health care pictures and brochures
- Lack of education: A person’s educational level may make it difficult for him/her to understand health care knowledge.
- Cognitive impairment: Cognitive impairment can make it difficult for a person to understand and process health-related knowledge.
- Insufficient support: Without proper support from family and health care providers, a person may be unable or unwilling to understand or accept health care knowledge.
Risk Population
People of all ages, races, and ethnicities can be at risk for this diagnosis. People with cognitive impairments, low socioeconomic status, and limited health literacy are particularly at risk.
Associated Problems
People with this diagnosis may experience an increased risk of health problems, medication errors, and non-compliance with doctor’s orders. They may also experience difficulties with communication and decision-making.
Suggestions of Use
This diagnosis should be used to identify those who need additional health care knowledge. It should be used to provide support and help people achieve their goals.
Suggested Alternative Nursing Diagnoses
- Knowledge deficit related to medications
- Ineffective Coping
- Health Maintenance, Readiness for Enhanced
Usage Tips
When using this diagnosis, it is important to be aware of the patient’s educational level, any language or cultural barriers, and if there are any physical or cognitive impairments that could affect their understanding of the material.
NOC Results
Nursing interventions meant to improve a patient’s willingness to improve knowledge can result in the following NOC Outcomes:
- Knowledge: Patient has an appropriate level of knowledge of the disease process and how to manage it.
- Comprehension and Application: Patient has a full understanding of the importance and implications of information related to the disease process, and can apply the information to daily self-care
- Performance Ability: Patient completes physical tasks and follows verbal instructions related to management of the condition.
NIC Interventions
Nursing interventions meant to improve a patient’s willingness to improve knowledge include the following NIC interventions:
- Patient Education: Develop and provide patient education regarding the disease process, treatments, side effects, and lifestyle modifications.
- Supportive Care: Encourage active participation in self-care and provide emotional and practical support when needed.
- Health Promotion/Wellness: Promote health and wellness through lifestyle modifications such as exercise, diet, and stress reduction.
Conclusion
Nursing Diagnosis: Willingness to Improve Knowledge is a nursing diagnosis which focuses on the ability of a patient to acquire new knowledge and processes. With proper support, education, and encouragement, the patient can learn and understand the material presented to them, leading to a better quality of life.
FAQ
- What is Nursing Diagnosis: Willingness To Improve Knowledge? It is a nursing diagnosis which focuses on the ability of a patient to acquire new knowledge and processes.
- Who can be at risk for this diagnosis? People of all ages, races, and ethnicities can be at risk for this diagnosis. People with cognitive impairments, low socioeconomic status, and limited health literacy are particularly at risk.
- What nursing interventions can be used to improve this diagnosis? Nursing interventions meant to improve a patient’s willingness to improve knowledge include patient education, supportive care, and health promotion/wellness.
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