Nursing care of a patient with cluster headache based on the Nola Pender health promotion model: Case report

Abstract

Introduction

Cluster headache was described by B.T. Horton as a strong unilateral pain in the orbital region of cyclical predominance, which affects mainly men. The structural and functional abnormalities of its aetiology are not exactly known, although it is related to an autosomal gene. The diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms and the treatment on pain management and suppression of the precipitating factors of the episode.

Objective

To develop a nursing care plan for patients with cluster headaches and establish health-promoting behaviour.

Methodology

A review of the literature on cluster headache was conducted. Based on the Nanda International domain assessment taxonomy, Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) and Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), an individualized care plan was developed. Next, the Nola Pender Health Promotion Model was applied to the patient to promote health-promoting behaviours.

Results

The nursing process is described starting from the diagnoses of pain, fatigue, knowledge, and health behaviour with their respective objectives, interventions, and nursing actions. Improvement was evidenced when the patient was administered 50% venturi oxygen at 15 L per min, for 30 min; topiramate every 12 h and generation of healthy behaviours based on the Health Promotion Model proposed by Pender.

Conclusions

The importance of not only addressing the severity of the clinical picture is highlighted, but also the promotion of appropriate lifestyles on risk factors that trigger the disease.