Gordon’s Functional Health Patterns

Gordon’s Functional Health Patterns

Developed by Dr. Marjory Gordon to group nursing diagnoses into categories of basic human health function.

■ Health Perception and Health Management - Perceived level of health and well-being, and practices for maintaining health. Habits that may be detrimental to health are also evaluated, including smoking and use of alcohol or other drugs. Actual or potential problems related to safety and health management may be identified as well as needs for modifications or continued care in the home.

■ Nutrition and Metabolism - Pattern of food and fluid intake relative to metabolic needs. The adequacy of local nutrient supplies is evaluated. Actual or potential problems related to fluid balance, tissue integrity, GI health, and host defense may be identified.

■ Elimination - Excretory patterns (GI, GU, skin). Incontinence, constipation, diarrhea, and urinary retention may be identified.

■ Activity and Exercise - Activities of daily living (ADLs) requiring energy expenditure including self-care activities, exercise, and leisure activities. Assess major body systems involved with activity and exercise including the respiratory, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems.

■ Cognition and Perception - Ability to comprehend and use information. Assess sensory functions. Sensory experiences such as pain and altered sensory input may be identified and evaluated.

■ Sleep and Rest - Sleep, rest, and relaxation practices. Dysfunctional sleep patterns and fatigue may be identified.

■ Self-Perception and Self-Concept - Attitudes toward self, including identity, body image, and sense of self-worth. Level of self-esteem and response to threats to self-concept.

■ Roles and Relationships - Roles in the world and relationships with others. Satisfaction with roles, role strain, or dysfunctional relationships may be further evaluated.

■ Sexuality and Reproduction - Satisfaction or dissatisfaction with sexuality patterns and reproductive functions. Concerns with sexuality may be identified.

■ Coping and Stress Tolerance - Perception of stress and coping strategies. Support systems are evaluated, and symptoms of stress are noted. The effectiveness of coping strategies in terms of stress tolerance may be evaluated.

■ Values and Beliefs - Values, beliefs, and goals that may guide choices or decisions.