The individual also impacts upon and is affected by the immediate environment as well as factors of the macroenvironment such as atmosphere, water, and food supply. A human being possesses adaptive mechanisms and continually strives to adapt to both internal and environmental stressors. The level of adaptation at any given time varies and is seen on a continuum of wellness to illness. Human support systems and social networks within the community of a human being are in constant interrelationship and affect each person s adaptive responses to stressors. Environment is the setting for health services, which may include the home, hospital, clinic, community and society.
Health is a state of optimum function within a given environment.
The ability of the client to adapt to actual or potential stressors affecting health status is dependent upon biological endowment, psychological orientation, sociocultural environment, and spirituality. Health potential is affected by the client s interpretation of an ideal healthy state. This view recognizes individual choices, values, culture, education, strengths and weaknesses. The client must be an active participant in the process of health care to achieve maximum health potential. Quality health care is implemented through the American Nurses Association s Standards of Nursing Practice.