Schumann’s stages of illness

Including Impacts.

1. Schumann’s Stages of Illness

2. The person is aware that something is wrong. A person usually recognizes a physical sensation or a limitation in functioning but does not suspect a specific diagnosis . Three aspects: Physical (Fever, Muscle Aches, Malaise, Headache) Cognitive (Perception of “having flu”) Emotional (Worry on consequence of illness) STAGE ONE: Symptom Experience

3. If symptom persist and become severe, clients assume the sick role. At this point, the illness becomes a social phenomenon, and sick people seek confirmation from their families and social groups that they are indeed ill and that they be excused from normal duties and role expectations. STAGE TWO: Assumption of the Sick Role

4. STAGE THREE: Medical Care Contact If symptoms persist despite the home remedies, become severe or require emergency care, the person is motivated to seek professional health services. In this stage the client seeks expert acknowledgement of the illness as well as the treatment . Validation of real illness; Explanation of symptoms; Reassurance or prediction of outcome

5. STAGE FOUR: Dependent Client Role The client depends on health care professionals for the relief of symptoms. The client accepts care, sympathy and protection from the demands and stresses of life. A client can adopt the dependent role in a health care institution, at home, or in a community setting. The client must also adjust to the disruption of a daily schedule . Accepts/rejects health professional’s suggestions; becomes more passive and accepting; may regress to an earlier behavioral stage

6. STAGE FIVE: Recovery/Rehabilitation This stage can arrive suddenly, such as when the symptoms appeared. In the case of chronic illness, the final stage may involve in an adjustment to a prolong reduction in health and functioning . Gives up the sick role and returns to former roles and functions

7. IMPACTS OF ILLNESS ON THE CLIENT Behavioral and emotional changes Loss of autonomy Self-concept and body image changes Lifestyle changes On the Family Depends on: Member of the family who is ill Seriousness and length of the illness Cultural and social customs the family follows

8. IMPACTS OF ILLNESS ON THE FAMILY Role changes Task reassignments Increased demands on time Anxiety about outcomes Conflict about unaccustomed responsibilities Financial problems Loneliness as a result of separation and pending loss Change in social customs