Analyse and evaluate the use of the Roper Logan Tierney assessment tool in your current practice - Assignment Example

Since my patients are old people, verbal communication is often difficult to collect right information from them. Beyond doctor’s case study, and opinion of relatives we often have to rely on the Roper Logan Tierney model to assess the condition of patients by observing their activities of living (ALs). These activities of living, according to Roper Logan and Tierney (2000) are twelve common activities such as maintaining a safe environment, communication, breathing, eating and drinking, elimination, cleansing and dressing, controlling temperature, mobilizing, working and playing, expressing sexuality, sleeping, and dying (Marriner-Tomey & Alligood, 2006).

Though there are many other nursing models and theories (McKenna, 1997), the Roper Logan Tierney model would help a health practitioner to form clear idea about the patient’s needs by observing them from various perspectives. Environment: safe and peaceful environment highly influences patients’ progress in health (Baric L & Blinkhorn, 2007). Yet, most of them may not be capable of creating their own safe environment. Obviously, old patients are either unable to do anything for making safe environment or unaware of its importance.

As the theorists suggests, in order to perform any other activities of living a safe environment is essential for an individual (Roper, Logan & Tierney, 1996 p. 21). A patient’s ability and attitude toward environment would give an idea about the influence of environmental factors on his/her past life and on the present illness. This assessment would help nurses determine the required measures for the patient’s betterment. Peaceful and pollution free ambiance is essential, especially for old patients who are suffering from mental and physical weakness.

Communication: although verbal communication with old patients is difficult, there are many other ways to communicate with them such as by touch, look, and smile,