Physical Needs.

These are closely related to body functions and are sometimes referred to as primary or physiological drives.

Physical needs include:

• Food.
• Water.
• Oxygen.
• Elimination.
• Clothing and shelter for body warmth and protection.
• Activity, or sensory and motor stimulation, including sex, physical exercise, and rest.

Emotional Needs.

Emotional needs are closely interwoven with physical needs and are met in interaction with significant others. They include:

• Love, including approval and esteem.
• Importance, including recognition and respect.NOTE: This applies to the patient’s perception of the nurse’s feelings toward him. For example, if your patient feels that you do not approve of or respect him, he may become very demanding, or he may withdraw and not cooperate with your efforts to make him healthy again.
• Adequacy, including self-sufficiency and the need to be needed and wanted.
• Productivity, including work and creative pursuits.NOTE: Remember that all human behavior is aimed toward the satisfaction of basic human needs.

Social Needs.

Social needs grow out of the culture and society of which one is a member. They include:

• Identification or belonging.
• Education or learning.
• Recreation or play.
• Religion or worship.