Compare vulnerable populations. Describe an example of one of these groups in the United States or from another country. Explain why the population is designated as "vulnerable." Include the number of individuals belonging to this group and the specific challenges or issues involved. Discuss why these populations are unable to advocate for themselves, the ethical issues that must be considered when working with these groups, and how nursing advocacy would be beneficial.
Guide On Rating System
Vote
Vulnerable populations refer to groups of people who are at a higher risk of facing health disparities and have limited access to healthcare resources. These populations often experience economic, social, and health-related challenges that make them more susceptible to adverse outcomes. One example of a vulnerable population in the United States is the homeless population.
In the United States, there were approximately 567,715 homeless individuals on a given night in 2019, according to the Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This population is considered vulnerable due to various factors, including poverty, lack of stable housing, untreated mental illnesses or substance abuse disorders, and limited access to healthcare services. Homeless individuals face numerous challenges, such as malnutrition, infectious diseases, mental health issues, physical injuries, and limited access to sanitation facilities. Furthermore, due to their transient lifestyle and lack of address, homeless individuals often face difficulty in accessing healthcare services, making it harder to address their healthcare needs.
The homeless population often struggles to advocate for themselves due to their marginalized and stigmatized status in society. Their lack of resources, unstable living conditions, and limited access to healthcare facilities make it challenging for them to express their needs and concerns effectively. Additionally, homelessness is often associated with mental health issues or substance abuse disorders, which further impact their ability to advocate for themselves.
When working with vulnerable populations such as the homeless, ethical issues become paramount. Respecting autonomy, ensuring confidentiality, and promoting social justice are crucial when providing healthcare services to homeless individuals. Nurses must prioritize patient-centered care, treating each individual with dignity and respect, and working collaboratively to address their specific needs. This may involve employing culturally sensitive strategies, employing harm reduction approaches, and advocating for effective policies and programs that focus on homelessness prevention, affordable housing, and healthcare access.
Nursing advocacy plays a significant role in supporting vulnerable populations such as the homeless. Advocacy can involve raising awareness about health disparities, ensuring equal access to healthcare services, promoting health education, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address the social determinants of health. Nurses can advocate for policy changes, allocate resources effectively, and work towards eliminating systemic inequalities that contribute to homelessness and its associated health challenges.
In conclusion, vulnerable populations such as the homeless face numerous challenges related to healthcare access, physical and mental health, and social determinants of health. These populations struggle to advocate for themselves due to various factors, requiring healthcare professionals, including nurses, to be their advocates. Addressing ethical considerations and employing nursing advocacy can help mitigate health disparities and improve the overall well-being of vulnerable populations.
Got a question with my answer?
Cheapmath.com is completely free!
Asking question is free.
Getting answers is free.
+99