How many basic needs are included in Henderson's model?

How many basic needs are included in Henderson's model?

• A. Seven
• B. Ten
• C. Fourteen
• D. Twelve

Answer: (C)

Henderson's model centers on fourteen basic needs that guide nursing care by helping patients achieve independence in daily activities. These needs cover fundamental areas a person would handle unaided if healthy, so the nurse supports the patient to function independently across them. Examples include breathing normally, eating and drinking adequately, eliminating wastes, moving and maintaining positions, sleeping and resting, maintaining personal hygiene and dressing, keeping the body temperature within normal range, avoiding danger, communicating with others, worshiping according to one's faith, engaging in recreation or play, learning and discovering, and pursuing meaningful work or activities that provide a sense of accomplishment. Because Henderson explicitly defines fourteen distinct needs, the correct number is fourteen.

Henderson's model centers on fourteen basic needs that guide nursing care by helping patients achieve independence in daily activities. These needs cover fundamental areas a person would handle unaided if healthy, so the nurse supports the patient to function independently across them. Examples include breathing normally, eating and drinking adequately, eliminating wastes, moving and maintaining positions, sleeping and resting, maintaining personal hygiene and dressing, keeping the body temperature within normal range, avoiding danger, communicating with others, worshiping according to one's faith, engaging in recreation or play, learning and discovering, and pursuing meaningful work or activities that provide a sense of accomplishment. Because Henderson explicitly defines fourteen distinct needs, the correct number is fourteen.