ECOLOGICAL MODEL A.

Hypothesis Thalassemia is a blood disorder passed down through families (inherited) in which the body makes an abnormal form of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The disorder results in excessive destruction of red blood cells, which leads to anemia. Our patient acquired thalassemia through heredity. His family has a history of thalassemia and other blood related diseases.

GENETICS (HEREDITARY) AGE: 57 Y/O GENDER: MALE HISTORY OF THALASSEMIA

B. Pre-disposing factors Host Male 57 y/o Filipino genes Agent Reduced hemoglobin level Environment Living condition

C. Analysis The wheel model is a form of ecologic model designed to de-emphasize the agent factor of the ecologic triad. Specifically, our problem focuses on the multiple factors that predispose the client to have thalassemia which are mainly due to host factors based on the assessment and it is hereditary. The agent-host-environment model is primarily use in predicting illness rather than promoting wellness, although identification of risk factors that result from the interactions of agent, host, and environment are helpful in promoting and maintaining health. Because each of the agent-host-environment factors constantly interacts with others, health is an ever changing state. Health is seen when all three elements are in balance while illness is seen when one, two, or all three elements are not in balance. The modifiable factors of thalassemia are diet and lifestyle. The non-modifiable factors are sex, age, ancestry and heredity. In this case, factors contributing to the clients illness are familial history, gender, age, and ancestry. As in all diseases, a genetic predisposition increases ones risk of having the disease. His advancing age also cause a lot of physiologic changes in his body (Fundamentals of Nursing by Kozier 2004) D. Conclusion I therefore conclude that the host factors of the patient have contributed most in the present condition of the client rather than environmental factors. The patient has disease because of genetics. The said disease runs in the blood of his family. Another big factor is that the patient has a history of thalassemia. Patient and family members should be given proper instruction and knowledge on how to help the patient to cope in his condition. Patient way of living should be carefully understand to limit the anxiety and self-pity. Showing emotional and moral support can aid the anxiety and self-pity.