What is the impact of social determinants of health on nursing care planning?

• A. They do not affect care.
• B. They influence access, adherence, risk factors and outcomes; nurses should assess barriers (transport, housing, finances) in care planning.
• C. Only affect older adults.
• D. Only influence medication costs.

Answer: (B)

Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, live, work, and age, and they shape health outcomes by influencing access to care, ability to follow treatment plans, and overall risk factors. In nursing care planning, this means assessing barriers such as transportation, safe housing, and financial resources, then tailoring the plan to address those barriers and connecting patients with appropriate supports. For example, a patient who needs medications but cannot afford them or lacks reliable transport benefits from linking with assistance programs, considering telehealth or home-based options, and coordinating with social services. When these factors aren’t addressed, adherence drops, appointments are missed, and outcomes deteriorate, affecting patients across ages and conditions. This approach reflects how SDOH influence planning in real-world practice, not just a single aspect like cost or a specific age group.