Understanding Homelessness
What is the definition of homelessness?
lacking a stable, safe, and permanent place to live
About how many people worldwide experience homelessness?
150 million
Why is building trust important when caring for the homeless population?
Because many have faced stigma, trauma, discrimination and distrust in healthcare settings.
How can you support our planned action?
By donating the listed items on blackboard to our donation bins. We appreciate any of your contributions!
What guides nurses in making moral and ethical decisions and actions?
The seven primary values of the CNA Code of Ethics
Name 3 personal causes of homelessness
mental illness, substance use and addiction, family violence
how many people in Canada experience homelessness each year? (range)
between 150,000 - 300,000
Define trauma-informed care
identifying the impact of trauma and understanding how it affects the overall well-being of the individual. It involves creating a safe, supportive, empowering environment and building trust with the patient to avoid re-traumatization.
Name three items included in the care kits.
hygiene products, snacks, toothbrushes, socks, mittens, naloxone, non-perishable food
What does Value D- Honouring Dignity, mean in the context of homelessness?
Respecting individuals and reducing stigma and discrimination
What are the four main types of homelessness?
Unsheltered, emergency sheltered, provisionally accommodated, at risk
What percentage of the homeless population in Canada identifies as Indigenous?
33%
Educating the patient on substance use and connecting clients to safe injection sites or other community supports
How does including a note of encouragement in each care kit benefit homeless individuals?
Providing a note of encouragement can remind individuals they are seen, valued and worthy.
What ethical value involves advocating for equitable access to healthcare?
Value F: Promoting justice
What is the difference between "unsheltered" and "provisionally accommodated?"
Unsheltered - living outdoors, in places such as parks, tents, abandoned buildings
Provisionally accommodated - living in temporary places. This includes staying with friends or family or living at hotels or motels
How many shelter beds are available across Canada?
Around 20,000
What does holistic nursing care focus on?
Addressing the physical, mental and social well-being of an individual and not just ullness.
How does including naloxone kits support harm reduction principles in nursing practice?
it helps prevent overdose deaths and promotes safety in the homeless population who are vulnerable to substance use.
How can nurses demonstrate accountability when working with people experiencing homelessness?
By reflecting on their own biases, evaluating interventions and ensuring their care meets the ethical standards.
What is the difference between the BC Housing homeless outreach program and the homeless prevention program?
Homeless Outreach Program - connects people with housing and income assistance.
Homeless Prevention Program - provides rental assistance to help individuals maintain housing stability
What is the name of Canada's federal strategy to reduce homelessness?
The Reaching Home strategy
How can nurses preserve the dignity of patients experiencing homelessness?
By providing non-judgemental, respectful and culturally safe care
Name two outcomes or goals of our planned action
improved access to basic needs, promoting dignity, raising awareness, fostering compassion
What value involves providing education and supporting autonomy of homeless individuals?
Value C - Promoting and respecting informed decision-making