The Importance Of Self-Management In Nursing

The following case study report focuses on the planning of care from case study part A. Emily was an eight year old girl living with two chronic and complex illnesses; type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The importance of guiding principles delivered by the registered nurse (RN) used to plan nursing care within the health care setting will be defined and examples will be given that relate to Emily and her experience. A discussion of the overall role of the RN in the management of a patient with chronic and complex conditions will be explored and an analysis of how the RN collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to coordinate comprehensive nursing care will also be determined and subsequently examined.

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Self-management is simply defined as the undertaking of obligation for one’s own behaviour to maintain well-being (Oxford Dictionary, 2015). Furthermore, self-management requires a person to implement strategies to manage their own illness. Subsequently, self-management will involve Emily and her family to make educated decisions about treatment options, to follow a healthy lifestyle, monitoring of her symptoms and responding to damaging changes in her condition (Merritt & Boogaerts, 2014, p. 93). For example, Emily is able to recognise through self-management that if she fails to administer her medication, then she will consequently experience signs and symptoms of her chronic illnesses and consequently, would be detrimental to having a healthy

94). Empowerment has been identified as the most important element in health promotion strategies (Brimble, 2008, p. 127). By working alongside the patient, as opposed to dictating instructions, the nurse is able to allow the patient a level of control and the focus becomes patient centred (Merritt & Boogaerts, 2014, p. 93). Furthermore, an age appropriate child centred approach would be applicable to Emily and would increase the level of her knowledge. For example, the use of information brochures specifically designed for children (Brimble, 2008, p. 123). Cumulatively, self-management and empowerment facilitate patient independency when health care workers provide the appropriate delivery of education and advice (Lawn, Delany, Sweet, Battersby, & Skinner, 2013, p. 1). For example, if the nurse has a good rapport with Emily then Emily is more likely to seek out information, maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue with the care needed to keep her well (Brimble, 2008, p.