1)Describe the characteristics of the aging process. Explain how some of the characteristics may lead to elder abuse (memory issues, vulnerability, etc.). Discuss the types of consideration a nurse must be mindful of while performing a health assessment on a geriatric patient as compared to a middle-aged adult. With intent citation and references
2)End-of-life care becomes an issue at some point for elderly patients. Even with the emergence of palliative care programs and hospice programs, most elderly people do not die in their own home as is their preference. What are the reasons for this trend? Discuss what you can do as a nurse to support your patients regarding end-of-life care in accordance with their wishes. Support your response with evidence-based literature. With intent citation and references
Expert Solution Preview
1) Introduction: As people age, they experience various physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that can impact their daily lives. It is essential for healthcare providers to understand the aging process, including its characteristics, and be mindful of the considerations needed during a health assessment of a geriatric patient. Elder abuse is also a concerning issue that can arise due to certain aging characteristics.
The aging process is a natural and inevitable part of life. Some of the characteristics of aging include physical changes such as decreased muscle mass, decreased bone density, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and dementia. Cognitive changes such as memory issues, decreased attention span, and slower information processing can also occur. Emotional changes, including depression and anxiety, are prevalent in older adults.
Older adults are vulnerable to elder abuse due to their physical or cognitive limitations, lack of social support, and dependence on others for care. Memory issues can lead to confusion, which can make older adults more susceptible to financial exploitation, neglect, or physical abuse. Nurses should be mindful of this vulnerability and conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes evaluating the patient’s cognitive state and any concerns related to elder abuse.
During a health assessment of a geriatric patient, a nurse must consider aspects such as sensory deficits, mobility issues, and communication barriers. Due to the older adults’ decreased physical abilities, a nurse may need to use alternative techniques, such as different-sized blood pressure cuffs or assistive devices. The nurse must also be mindful of the patient’s mental state and adjust their communication style accordingly.
2) Introduction: End-of-life care is a critical issue that healthcare providers must address for elderly patients. Despite the availability of palliative care and hospice programs, most elderly people do not die in their own homes. It is essential to understand the reasons for this trend and how nurses can support their patients’ end-of-life wishes.
There are various reasons why elderly patients may not die in their own homes, including financial limitations, inadequate social support, and the availability of appropriate care. Due to a lack of financial resources, some elderly patients may have to rely on nursing homes or hospitals for end-of-life care. Additionally, inadequate social support may mean that elderly patients do not have someone to take care of them at home. Finally, specialized end-of-life care may not be available in certain areas, making it difficult for patients to receive the care they require.
As a nurse, it is vital to advocate for the patient’s end-of-life wishes and ensure that they receive the care they need in their preferred setting. To achieve this, the nurse must work closely with the patient and their family to understand the patient’s preferences and provide support in decision-making. Additionally, the nurse can educate the patient and family about the available end-of-life care options, including hospice care, and connect them to appropriate resources.
References:
American Nurses Association. (2015). Gerontological Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice.
Berger, A. M., Shuster, J. L., & Roenn, J. H. (2015). Principles and Practice of Palliative Care and Supportive Oncology (4th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
National Council on Aging. (2018). Preventing Elder Abuse. Retrieved from https://www.ncoa.org/public-policy-action/elder-justice/preventing-elder-abuse/
