Social Determinants of Health

1. Mr. Patel, 59, has uncontrolled hypertension. During teaching, he quietly admits he often eats instant noodles because “it’s cheap and lasts long.” His BP remains elevated despite medication. He avoids eye contact and says he cannot “afford fancy diets.” What is the LPN’s best action? *
2. A client with latent TB infection has missed multiple follow-ups. The LPN discovers he sleeps intermittently at shelters and in abandoned buildings. He keeps his medications in a plastic bag. Which intervention best supports treatment adherence? *
3. A woman newly diagnosed with heart failure appears confused during discharge teaching. Her reading level is unknown. She nods politely but holds the paper instructions upside down. What should the LPN do first? *
4. A young transgender patient with asthma frequently misses appointments and later explains he avoids clinics due to past discrimination. Which action directly addresses the social determinant affecting his access to care? *
5. A diabetic patient fails to pick up glucose strips. When asked, he says, “They’re expensive, but I’ll manage somehow.” His glucose logs have large gaps. Which assessment approach is most appropriate? *
6. Mrs. Cadrin, 81, attends the clinic for dehydration. She says she rarely eats “because no one is around,” and her only daughter moved abroad. She appears withdrawn and underweight. Which referral addresses the determinant influencing her health? *
7. A temporary worker presents with back pain worsened by heavy lifting. He fears losing his job if he refuses tasks and has no insurance. He asks the LPN to “not mention this to anyone.” What is the most appropriate action? *
8. A stroke patient repeatedly misses CLSC follow-up. He reveals he has no car and the local bus stop requires walking uphill, which he cannot do. What is the best referral? *
9. A teen mother reports she cannot afford formula, bus fare, or warm clothes. She is worried Child Protection may intervene. She avoids care due to fear of judgment. What is the nurse’s most appropriate action? *
10. A woman arrives late for appointments, frequently cancels, and appears anxious. She later reveals her partner controls her transportation and money, and she is “not allowed” to attend appointments alone. What is the priority referral? *