A client is hospitalized with numerous acute health problems. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs model, which nursing diagnosis should the nurse identify as being the highest priority for this client?
A.
Self-Care Deficit related to weakness and debilitation
B.
Powerlessness related to chronic disease state
C.
Altered Nutrition, Less Than Body Requirements related to the inability to absorb nutrients
D.
Risk for Injury related to unsteady gait
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The highest priority nursing diagnosis according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs model is:
C. Altered Nutrition, Less Than Body Requirements related to the inability to absorb nutrients
Explanation
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow, which organizes human needs into a pyramid with five levels. The hierarchy is structured from the most basic physiological needs at the bottom to self-actualization at the top. The priority is determined based on the most fundamental needs that must be met before higher-level needs can be addressed.
- Physiological Needs: These are the most fundamental and critical for survival. They include needs such as air, water, food, shelter, and sleep. If these needs are not met, an individual cannot focus on higher-level needs like safety or self-esteem.
- Safety Needs: Once physiological needs are satisfied, safety needs become the priority. These include personal security, employment, resources, health, and property.
- Love and Belongingness Needs: After safety needs are met, social needs such as relationships, friends, and a sense of connection become important.
- Esteem Needs: This level involves self-esteem, respect from others, and recognition.
- Self-Actualization: This is the highest level, involving personal growth and fulfillment.
In the context of the given nursing diagnoses, Altered Nutrition, Less Than Body Requirements related to the inability to absorb nutrients addresses a physiological need. Nutritional needs are fundamental to survival and must be prioritized before addressing other concerns.
Self-Care Deficit (A) and Risk for Injury (D) are important but are secondary to meeting basic physiological needs. Powerlessness (B) relates to psychological and emotional needs, which are also important but come after physiological needs are addressed.
Altered Nutrition, Less Than Body Requirements directly impacts the client’s ability to maintain health and supports overall physiological functioning. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to a multitude of complications, including further weakening of the body and potential failure to meet other needs.
By prioritizing nutritional needs, the nurse ensures that the client’s basic physiological requirements are met, creating a foundation upon which other needs can be addressed more effectively. Thus, according to Maslow’s hierarchy, addressing Altered Nutrition is the highest priority.