Moving clients toward wellness: behavioral change

Assisting clients to incorporate behavior change into their life-style presents a challenge to the clinical nurse specialist. Lack of adherence to prescribed regimens and educational interventions constitutes a primary reason for the occurrence and complications of illness, leading to inadequate control of the disease process and increased health care costs. This paper describes behavior modification techniques that can be used in conjunction with an educational program to initiate and maintain healthier behaviors among clients who demonstrate physical and emotional readiness for learning. The author also discusses how social support as a maintenance technique helps clients embarking on behavior change programs. Maintenance of a behavior change through utilizing a family systems focus not only facilitates an individual's coping with illness but also promotes family coping and adaptation.