Review Questions

Review Questions

1. Why is it important for the health care worker to practice good health habits?

Health care workers need adequate physical energy, mental alertness, and the ability to handle stress. Today’s health care worker also has the important responsibility of being a healthy role model for patients.

2. How can old habits be changed or new habits be formed?

Recognize a need for change, and be willing to change. Then:

* Understand that making change is not easy.
* Patiently work to change.
* Set reasonable change goals.
* Focus on the positive.
* Track your progress.
* Reward your achievements.

3. What are five health problems caused by overweight and obesity?

Obesity may cause:

* Shortness of breath
* Back and joint pain
* A reduced ability to enjoy physical activities
* Diabetes mellitus
* High blood pressure
* Heart disease

4. Why is it important that the diet contain a variety of items from all the food groups?

A diet with variety is important to provide all the nutrients needed for maintaining body functions and good health. Variety helps ensure that adequate vitamins and minerals are consumed. Vitamins and minerals are essential for:

* Building and repairing body tissues
* Regulating fluids and body processes
* Enabling the body to use the energy supplied by foods

5. What are five benefits of physical exercise?

Physical exercise:

* Promotes a feeling of well-being (more endorphins)
* Relieves stress and improves mental outlook
* Improves the quality of sleep
* Helps with weight control
* Increases energy level

6. What are the consequences of getting an inadequate amount of sleep?

Inadequate sleep means the body does not recuperate from the day’s activities; the brain may not rest enough to clear and recharge itself; and the following day may result in a lack of productive, best effort.

7. What preventive measures help ensure good health?

The following help ensure good health:

* Regular physician visits for routine checkups
* Periodic age/gender group screenings for known risks
* Regular dental visits
* Treatment of illnesses in the early stage
* Immunizations

8. How can the health care worker deal effectively with stress?

Stress can be managed and dealt with by:

* Prioritizing your tasks and responsibilities
* Managing your time well
* Using muscle relaxation techniques
* Practicing meditation
* Developing a positive attitude

9. What are the major health risks faced by health care workers today?

Health care workers face:

* Occupational hazards: exposure to infectious diseases, chemicals, and potentially dangerous equipment
* Burnout
* Injury from lifting, computer work, and other physical work

Personal risks for some individuals include:

* Smoking
* Substance abuse
* Sexually transmitted diseases

10. Explain the symptoms of burnout and preventive measures.

Burnout is a form of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by a variety of personal and external stressors experienced over a period of time, including:

* Lack of sleep
* Long hours in difficult working conditions
* Inadequate emotional support
* Inability to deal with frustration
* Poor health habits

Health care workers can best avoid burnout by practicing good health habits, asserting themselves in nonthreatening ways, and practicing good, open communication.