A nurse is following the goals of Healthy People 2030 to provide care. Which action should the nurse take?

A) Socioeconomic factors:
Socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and employment status, are considered external variables that influence a patient's health. These factors impact access to resources and healthcare, but they are not internal variables. Internal factors relate to personal perceptions, behaviors, and beliefs that the patient has regarding their health.

B) Family practices:
Family practices also fall under external variables. These include the health behaviors, habits, and routines practiced by the family, which can influence a patient’s health but are not internal to the individual. The nurse should assess how family practices affect health but not as internal variables.

C) Cultural background:
Cultural background is another external variable that can influence health practices, beliefs, and behaviors. It shapes how patients perceive illness, health care, and healing. While important to assess for understanding a patient's worldview, it does not fall under the category of internal variables.

D) Perception of functioning:
Perception of functioning is an internal variable because it reflects how the patient views their own health status and capabilities. This includes their sense of well-being, physical limitations, and emotional health. A patient’s perception of their functioning can directly impact their decision-making and actions related to their health, and it is essential for the nurse to assess this to guide care effectively.

A) Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus: While diabetes mellitus is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, it is not directly modifiable. Management and control of diabetes through lifestyle changes and medication can reduce the risk, but the diagnosis itself cannot be altered.

B) Family history of cardiac disease: Genetic predisposition to cardiac disease is a non-modifiable risk factor. Individuals cannot change their family history, but they can take steps to mitigate the risk through healthy lifestyle choices.

C) Increasing age: Age is a natural risk factor that cannot be changed. As people age, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases. While this is an important consideration, it is not something that can be modified through lifestyle changes.

D) Cigarette smoking: Smoking is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall health. Smoking cessation programs, education, and support can help individuals make this important lifestyle change.