Definition of Fatigue
An overwhelming sustained sense of exhaustion and decreased capacity for physical and mental work at usual level
Defining Characteristics of Fatigue
- Decreased libido or performance
- Disinterest in surroundings
- Drowsiness
- Failure of sleep to restore energy
- Lack of energy
- Guilt for not meeting responsibilities
- Inability to maintain usual routines
- Impaired concentration
- Increased need for rest
- Increased physical complaints
- Lethargy or listlessness
- Perceived need for more energy for routine tasks
- Verbalization of overwhelming lack of energy
Related Factors of Fatigue
- Psychological, e.g., anxiety, depression, stress
- Physiological, e.g., anemia, disease states, malnutrition, pregnancy, poor physical condition
- Environmental, e.g., humidity, lights, noise, temperature
- Situational, e.g., negative life events, occupation
Assessment Focus | Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue
Nursing Care Plan for Fatigue | Assessment Focus; Expected Outcomes; Suggested NOC Outcomes
Assessment Focus of Fatigue (Refer To Comprehensive Assessment Parameters.)
- Activity/exercise
- Cardiovascular function
- Coping
- Neurocognition
- Nutrition
- Reproduction
- Respiratory function
- Risk management
- Sleep/rest
Expected Outcomes| Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue
The patient will
- Identify and employ measures to prevent or modify fatigue.
- Explain relationship of fatigue to disease process and activity level.
- Verbally express increased energy.
- Articulate plan to resolve fatigue problems.
Suggested NOC Outcomes| Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue
Activity Tolerance; Endurance; Energy Conservation; Nutritional Status: Energy; Psychomotor Energy; Personal Well-Being
Nursing Interventions of Fatigue | Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue
Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue | Nursing Interventions of Fatigue and Rationales; Suggested NIC Interventions
Nursing Interventions of Fatigue and rationales
- Assess usual patterns of sleep and activity to establish a baseline.
- Conserve energy through rest, planning, and setting priorities to prevent or alleviate fatigue. Alternate activities with periods of rest. Avoid scheduling two energy-draining procedures on the same day. Encourage activities that can be completed in short periods. These measures help to avoid overexertion and increase stamina.
- Reduce demands placed on patient (e.g., ask one family member to call at specified times and relay messages to friends and other family members) to reduce physical and emotional stress.
- Structure environment (e.g., set up daily schedule on the basis of patient needs and desires) to encourage compliance with treatment regimen.
- Postpone eating when patient is fatigued, to avoid aggravating condition. Provide small, frequent feedings to conserve patient’s energy and encourage increased dietary intake.
- Establish a regular sleeping pattern. Getting 8–10 hr of sleep nightly helps reduce fatigue.
- Discuss effect of fatigue on daily living and personal goals.
- Explore with patient relationship between fatigue and disease process to help increase patient compliance with schedule for activity and rest.
- Encourage patient to eat foods rich in iron and minerals, unless contraindicated to help avoid anemia and demineralization.
- Encourage patient to explore feelings and emotions with a supportive counselor, clergy, or other professional to help cope with illness and avoid aggravating fatigue.
Suggested NIC Interventions| Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue
Activity Therapy; Coping Enhancement; Energy Management; Exercise Promotion; Sleep Enhancement
This is a sample of Nursing Diagnosis for Fatigue.
