NR 581NP Week 5: micro-, meso-, and macro-levels of the Healthcare System
1. Application of Course Knowledge
a. Summarize the issue.
Over the past six months the American Red Cross has been facing an emergency
blood shortage. According to NBCNews the blood supply decreased about 25%
since July 1, 2024. Typically during the summer the donations decrease due to
people traveling and the summer heat. As a result of this blood supply that is sent
to hospitals quicker than the donors are able to supply. Donated blood is a very
crucial part of lifesaving medical treatments, especially during operations and
possibly childbirth.
b. Discuss how the issue may impact nursing practice at the micro-,
meso-, and macro-levels of the healthcare system. NR 581NP Week 5
The American Red Cross can be considered a macro-level system if referring to the
larger scale of social structures and the impact on the society as a whole. Blood
supply shortages have a direct impact on healthcare. The fewer people that donate
blood can cause delays or cancellations of major surgeries, emergency treatments
and delayed care with chronic conditions.
c. Analyze how healthcare policy impacts the issue.
There are several policies and regulations on donating blood, to ensure safety
measures are in place. Not everyone is a candidate for donating blood. The FDA
recently just lifted some restrictions on the criteria for donors so that more people
are able to donate. This will increase donors and help maintain a steady blood
supply.
d. Include a link to the news story or resource.
Red Cross faces emergency blood shortage caused in part by heat (nbcnews.com)
Resources
