MENOPAUSE : Health promotion strategies from a nursing perspective

Abstract

Background Menopause has a significant physical and emotional consequences whereby in some cases women may experience symptoms for many years. Nurses are considered to be a part of a patient’s decision making tool as well as promoting healthy living for these women. This paper has been commissioned by Basic sexology course. The aim and purpose of this study is to facilitate a better understanding of the menopause for the nurses to help menopausal women through health promotion strategies. Nola Pender’s Health Promotion theory was used to guide this paper. Methodology Literature review was used to conduct the whole paper in conjunction with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ebsco, Ebsco, Cinahl, Sage and Google scholar search engines were used to search articles while incorporating the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). There were 12 articles identified which were later analyzed through inductive content analysis approach. The two questions that guided this paper are namely:- 1. What is the impact of menopause on women? 2. How can nurses promote health in menopausal women through using health promotion strategies? Results The review emphasized the importance of health promotion strategies, role of education and routine health care visit. Through Nola Pender’s Health Promotion theory, nurse’s ability to understand the concept of individuality, holism and human needs can enhance the client individual planning. Conclusion and recommendation It is the work of the nurse to not only educate but also signpost women and also their spouses to the information required. Further studies are required as well as an evaluation of the quality of the internet information in relation to evidence based information that is reliable for women.