Since returning veterans tend to be vulnerable and distressed, nurses should respect their autonomy and be sensitive to their needs (Begley, 2010). There has been an urgent need for a set of social, economic, medical, psychological and organizational measures aimed at providing proper conditions for the successful recovery. Medical personnel should be sensitive and considerate towards veterans who experience the physical stress of recovering from a painful injury. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning the mental stress that both veterans and family members suffer from, due to the atrocities of military actions. A range of programs should be focused on meeting the health care needs of returning warriors. Proper treatment is required for veterans who have suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as traumatic brain injury (Jackonis et al., 2008, p. 678).
Wartime experience has a massive impact on the behavioural patterns of veterans. Combat stress causes subsequent maladjustment and psychological trauma, thus a particular attention should be paid to the psychological well-being. Life-threatening situations have a negative, maladaptive influence that contributes to a range of combat stress disorders. Unfortunately, not families are prepared to face the harsh realities and accept such significant transformation of a close person. Thus, returning veterans along with their families require quality assistance, in particular for those with low family income. A great number of returning veterans desperately need to fix the issues with health insurance coverage.
Besides, in order to provide veterans with high quality care, electronic medical records system is of paramount importance. It is supposed to store data regarding family-related health care issues as well as other pertinent information in terms of the unique needs of military and veteran patients. What is more, comprehensive family-centered care should be enhanced in order to ensure the efficient use of oral and behavioral programs (Jackonis et al., 2008).
References
Begley, A. M. (2010). On being a good nurse: Reflections on the past and preparing for the future. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 16(6): 525-532.
Jackonis, M. J., Deyton, L., & Hess, W. J. (2008). War, its aftermath, and U.S. health policy: Toward a comprehensive health program for America’s military personnel, veterans, and their families. Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics, 36(4): 677-689.
