Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Which theorist developed a model comprising 10 functional health patterns necessary for assessing a patient's health status?

1. Jean Watson

2. Marjory Gordon

3. Patricia Benner

4. Virginia Henderson

The correct answer is: Marjory Gordon

The model of 10 functional health patterns was developed by Marjory Gordon, aimed at providing a comprehensive framework for nursing assessments. This approach encourages nurses to consider various aspects of a patient's health, organized into specific domains that reflect the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in health and illness. Gordon's framework is particularly beneficial because it allows healthcare professionals to identify potential health problems, facilitate holistic assessments, and create tailored plans for patient care. Each of the functional patterns, such as health perception, nutritional, and elimination patterns, serves as a guide for nurses to gather essential information about a patient's overall well-being, thus enhancing the quality of care provided. Other theorists mentioned have made significant contributions to nursing and health care theory, but none specifically created this model for assessing functional health patterns as Gordon did. For instance, Jean Watson is known for her theory of human caring, Patricia Benner is noted for her work related to the stages of clinical competence, and Virginia Henderson focused on the essential components of nursing and patient independence, but they do not encompass the systematic approach that Gordon's model provides.