Assignment: Global Climate Change and Health The environment (both home and physical) has a significant influence on health, as you saw in the readings and media presentations for this week. You also

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Introduction:

Global climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. It is impacting every aspect of society, including health. As a medical professor, it is crucial to understand the implications of global climate change on health and how healthcare providers can respond. In this assignment, we will explore two health concerns related to climate change, compare the concerns in the United States with one developed and one developing country, and discuss health promotion and protection strategies that nurses can implement.

1. Describe two health care concerns related to global climate change.

The first health care concern related to global climate change is an increase in the spread of infectious diseases. The warming climate is leading to the expansion of tropical and subtropical areas where vectors that transmit diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, and malaria are prevalent. This expansion is increasing the exposure of the population to these diseases, leading to an increase in their transmission.

The second health care concern related to global climate change is the increase in heat-related illnesses. As temperatures rise, vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic health conditions, are at risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions can lead to hospitalization, prolonged recovery, and even death in extreme cases.

2. Compare concerns in the United States related to these topics with one developed and one developing country.

In the United States, there is an overall awareness of these two health care concerns related to global climate change. However, there are disparities in the impact of these concerns based on socioeconomic status, race, and location. For example, urban areas, where populations tend to be lower income and have less access to green spaces, are at higher risk for the adverse health effects of climate change.

In developed countries like Japan, the health care concerns related to global climate change are similar to those in the United States in terms of increasing risk of infectious diseases and heat-related illnesses. In Japan, there is a greater awareness of these concerns, and the country has implemented proactive measures to address them.

In developing countries like Bangladesh, the impact of climate change on health is more severe due to limited resources, poor infrastructure, and lack of awareness. The population is at a higher risk for infectious diseases, food insecurity, and flooding, which can increase the spread of disease.

3. Describe health promotion/health protection strategies a nurse could implement.

Nurses can play a crucial role in promoting and protecting the health of individuals and communities in the face of climate change. Strategies include:

– Educating patients on the risks of exposure to extreme weather conditions and infectious diseases and how to protect themselves.
– Encouraging patients to seek medical attention if they are experiencing heat-related symptoms, such as dizziness, headache, or fatigue.
– Advocating for policies and initiatives that promote sustainable living, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate the impact of climate change on health.
– Working with community partners to develop disaster preparedness plans and ensure access to needed resources.

References from the professional nursing literature can include articles discussing the impact of climate change on health and nursing interventions that have been successful in addressing these concerns.