Understanding the patient in all his human needs*

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Abstract
The 'patient' whether an individual, family or group has multiple human needs. These needs vary with the characteristics of the patient, the state of health/illness and the setting in which care is delivered. Needs may be of a psychological, physical and/or social nature, with dynamic interaction between and within these areas. The patient is part of a large system, the family and society, and here also mutual impact takes place. Time and space take on new meaning in periods of stress and the nurse must be sensitive to the humans needs which grow out of these changed perceptions. Factors which may contribute to meeting patient needs are a systematic method of learning about the patient, basing care on his specific needs, knowledgeable and skilled care givers and an appropriate environment.

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