Family health assessment--an integrated approach

The author discusses the development of a family assessment guide which combines family systems theory and Orem's self-care nursing framework. The rationale for integrating these two approaches is presented, based on the argument that a family conceptual framework or nursing framework alone cannot provide adequate guidelines for family nursing in the community. The family is viewed as a system with structure and function. Orem's self-care requirements are incorporated into the functions of the family. Five major assessment categories are discussed: environmental data; family structure; family function--meeting self-care requisites of family members; family function--adapting to change; and family perception of health situation. Data to be collected within each category is outlined, as well as the rationale for its inclusion in terms of its relevance for nursing of families in community health nursing.