Enhancing function in life transitions and serious illness

Function, which encompasses functional ability and functional status, is discussed within the context of three conceptual models of nursing. Functional ability is the person's capacity to perform biological, psychological, and social activities, whereas functional status is the actual performance of those activities. Comprehensive assessment of function encompasses instrumental and expressive elements of functional ability and functional status, with attention given to the internal, external, and cultural factors that influence function. The goal of nursing interventions is to help the individual attain the highest possible and most desirable level of function.