Domain 9. Coping-stress tolerance
Class 1. Post-trauma responses
Diagnostic Code: 00114
Nanda label: Relocation stress syndrome
Diagnostic focus: Relocation stress syndrome
Nursing diagnosis Relocation stress syndrome (RSS), also known as relocation, adjustment, and transition stress disorder, is a condition characterized by a range of symptoms that occur due to the changes and anxieties associated with the relocation process. The symptoms include confusion, difficulty adapting to new environments, fatigue, sense of helplessness and lack of energy. This condition can affect anyone regardless of age, race, or social class and can be difficult to diagnose without healthcare professionals considering all possible factors.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
NANDA nursing diagnosis defines Relocation Stress Syndrome as “a state in which an individual experiences confusion and difficulty in adjusting to a new environment as a result of relocation.” This diagnosis includes a person who is moving from one residence to another, or from one country to another. It includes people who are going through major life changing events, such as divorce, retirement or career changes.
Defining Characteristics
Subjective characteristics associated with this condition include feelings of confusion, having difficulty sleeping, feeling hopeless and helpless, over-reacting to minor issues, increased susceptibility to physical ailments, and general anxiety and restlessness.
Objective characteristics include physical signs such as fatigue, exhaustion, and inability to focus on tasks. People who have this condition may also experience general restlessness and have difficulty concentrating on tasks. It may also cause changes in the eating and sleeping habits, as well as poor hygiene. In extreme cases, this condition may lead to depression and a sense of isolation.
Relocation stress syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including personal trauma, unexpected life changes, financial difficulties, cultural differences, and lack of support. In some cases, this condition can be triggered by negative thoughts and feelings surrounding the relocation.
Personal trauma, such as the death of a family member or friend, can cause immense psychological distress for the person going through it. Unexpected life changes, such as job loss or sudden relocation, are also potential triggers of this condition.
Financial difficulties, like those experienced during an economic recession or after a natural disaster, can also lead to relocation stress syndrome. Cultural differences can cause changes in a person’s lifestyle, which can be difficult to accept and adjust to. Lastly, lack of support from family and friends who are not part of the relocation process can create a sense of alienation and loneliness.
At Risk Population
At-risk populations for this condition include youth and young adults who are experiencing their first ever relocation. Elderly individuals who are going through relocation can also be at risk. People who have a history of depression or anxiety can be more likely to develop RSS.
Other risk factors include individuals who are going through major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or retirement. People who are facing financial difficulties or have limited resources can also be at risk. Finally, people who are living in a different culture may face biases or social stigmas, which can create psychological distress as they try to adjust to their new environment.
Associated Conditions
Other conditions that are associated with RSS include insomnia, fatigue, difficulty in adjusting, confusion, hypertension, and depression. Insomnia and fatigue can cause mental fatigue and make it hard to adjust and concentrate in the new environment. Hypertension can also be triggered by anxiety and stress associated with the relocation. Depression can develop as a long-term problem due to lack of support and unfamiliarity with the new environment.
Suggestions for Use
Healthcare professionals can use the NANDA nursing diagnosis to assess the level of Relocation Stress Syndrome in an individual. They should also consider all other related factors, such as personal traumas, life changes, financial difficulties, cultural differences and lack of support. Healthcare professionals should offer support and help to the person facing any of these factors.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnoses
There are other NANDA nursing diagnoses that have similar symptoms and are related to RSS. These include:
- Grief Reaction
- Adjustment Anxiety Disorder
- Existential Crisis
- Fright Reaction
- Role Adaptation Difficulty
- Career Transition syndrome
- Surprise Response
Usage Tips
When utilizing a NANDA nursing diagnosis, it is important to remember that each person is unique and will experience Relocation Stress Syndrome in their own way. It is important to gather information about the lifestyle of the person prior to their relocation, to better help them make the transition. Healthcare professionals should also provide resources and tools that help the person cope with their new environment.
NOC Outcomes
NOC Outcomes are based on the Nursing Interventions Classification System, which outlines the expected outcomes for individuals with nursing diagnosis. For Relocation Stress Syndrome, the following NOC outcomes are:
- Adaptation to New Environment
- Physical Health Maintenance
- Managing Anxiety
- Confidence in Coping Abilities
- Self-esteem
Evaluation Objectives and Criteria
The evaluation objectives and criteria used to assess a patient’s ability to cope with relocation stress syndrome are as follows:
- The patient will demonstrate verbal and nonverbal adaptation to the new environment.
- The patient will show improved physical health maintenance, with improved sleep patterns and reduced physical discomfort.
- The patient will articulate decreased levels of anxiety and increased confidence in their abilities to cope with the relocation.
- The patient will demonstrate improved self-esteem and overall satisfaction with life.
NIC Interventions
NIC Interventions are based on the Nursing Interventions Classification System, which outlines interventions for individuals struggling with Relocation Stress Syndrome to help improve their physical health and emotional wellbeing. These interventions include:
- Providing information about the new environment
- Demonstrating methods to reduce stress and anxiety
- Discussing strategies to build confidence in coping abilities
- Explaining the importance of adopting healthy behaviors
- Facilitating conversations about fears and coping techniques
- Creating an action plan to reduce anxious thoughts
Nursing Activities
Nursing activities for individuals with Relocation Stress Syndrome must be tailored according to their individual needs and preferences. Common nursing activities include providing education about the relocation process and how to cope with the associated stress, monitoring physical health and vitals, discussing strategies to increase self-esthetic satisfaction and managing anxious thoughts. Additionally, the healthcare professional should coordinate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Conclusion
Relocation Stress Syndrome is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages going through a transition or relocation process. It is important for healthcare professionals to understand the condition and associated factors in order to provide appropriate care. By understanding the defining characteristics, related factors, and at-risk population, healthcare professionals can better identify and treat the condition. Furthermore, identifying and utilizing NOC Outcomes and NIC Interventions can help healthcare professionals provide the necessary care and support to those affected.
FAQs
- What is Nursing Diagnosis Relocation Stress Syndrome?
Nursing diagnosis Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS) is a condition characterized by a range of symptoms that occur due to the changes and anxieties associated with the relocation process. The symptoms include confusion, difficulty adapting to new environments, fatigue, sense of helplessness and lack of energy. - Who is At Risk of Developing RSS?
At-risk populations for this condition include youth and young adults who are experiencing their first ever relocation. Elderly individuals who are going through relocation can also be at risk. People who have a history of depression or anxiety and are going through major life changes can be more likely to develop RSS. - What are the Defining Characteristics of RSS?
Subjective characteristics associated with this condition include feelings of confusion, having difficulty sleeping, feeling hopeless and helpless, over-reacting to minor issues, increased susceptibility to physical ailments, and general anxiety and restlessness. Objective characteristics include physical signs such as fatigue, exhaustion, and inability to focus on tasks. - How Can Healthcare Professionals Assess for RSS?
Healthcare professionals can use the NANDA nursing diagnosis to assess the level of Relocation Stress Syndrome in an individual. They should also consider all other related factors, such as personal traumas, life changes, financial difficulties, cultural differences and lack of support. - What are Some Nursing Activities for Individuals with RSS?
Nursing activities for individuals with Relocation Stress Syndrome must be tailored according to their individual needs and preferences. Common nursing activities include providing education about the relocation process and how to cope with the associated stress, monitoring physical health and vitals, discussing strategies to increase self-esthetic satisfaction and managing anxious thoughts.