A framework for family assessment in chronic illness

Family assessment can enable the nurse to expand the internal and external resource potential of the family unit. Specifically, the nurse may be able to determine what information the client and family need to cope effectively with the illness condition. Additionally, the nurse may supply the family with consumer information regarding qualifications, cost, and appropriate points of entry for additional health and welfare services, and intervene as client advocate by documenting more specific information relevant to the agency's criteria for acceptance. With an adequate knowledge base obtained through the use of such an assessment, and with knowledge of local health-care delivery systems and community agencies, the nurse will be able to assist the family more fully. Specific information about resources, points of entry, costs, and quality of services may be offered to the family members to enable them to evaluate alternative courses of action appropriate to the specific situation and select the most beneficial solution.