Chapter 3 Flashcards
Holistic care
Caring for the whole person- the mind as well as the body.
Caring for a person holistically is part of providing person-centered care promotes their individual preferences, choices, dignity and interests.
Example: taking the time to talk with residents while helping them bathe
Changes in residents that need to be reported to the charge nurse
Signs of depression Suicidal thoughts Loss of ability to think logically Poor nutrition Shortness of breath Incontinence
Guidelines to caring for a resident with an intellectual disability
Treat them as adults
Praise and encourage often, especially positive behavior
Help teach activities of daily living by dividing a task into smaller units
Promote independence. Assist residents with activities and motor functions that are difficult
Encourage social interaction
Repeat what you say to make sure they understand
Be patient
Schizophrenia
A psychotic disorder that affects a person’s ability to think and communicate clearly. It also affects the ability to manage emotions, make decisions and understand reality. Affects the person’s ability to interact with others. Symptoms include hallucinations and delusions
Observing and reporting mental health disorders
Note:
Changes in ability
Positive or negative mood changes, especially withdrawal
Comments, even jokes about hurting oneself or others
Failure to take medicine or proper use of medicine
Real or imagined physical symptoms
Events, situations or people that seem to upset or excite residents
Advanced directives
Legal documents that allow people to decide what kind of medical care they wish to have if they are unable to make those decisions themselves.
Living will
Outlines the medical care a person wants, or does not want, in case they become unable to make those decisions
Durable power of attorney for healthcare
(Sometimes called healthcare proxy)
is a signed, dated and witnessed legal document that appoints someone else to make medical decisions for a person in the event that they become unable to do so. This can include instructions about medical treatment that the person does not want
Guidelines for caring for the dying resident
Reduce glare and keep room lighting low
Census begin to diminish and vision May fail. Hearing is usually the last sense to leave the body. Speak in a normal tone. Tell the resident about care that is being done or what is happening in the room. Do not expect an answer. Ask You questions. Observe body language to anticipate a residents needs
Give mouth care often
If the resident is unconscious, give mouth care every 2 hours. Apply lubricant, such as lip balm to the lips and nose
Skin care
Give bed baths and incontinence care is needed. Dave perspiring residents often. Skin should be kept clean and dry. Change sheets and clothes for comfort. Keep sheets wrinkle free. Careful skin care to prevent pressure injuries is important.
Pain control and comfort
Observe body language and watch for other signs of pain. Report them. Frequent changes of position, back massage skin care, mouth care and proper body alignment may help
Environment
Put favorite objects and photographs where the resident can easily see them. Make sure the room is comfortable, appropriately lit and well ventilated.
Emotional and spiritual support
Listening maybe one of the most important things you can do for a resident who is dying. Pay attention to these conversations. Report any comments about fear to the nurse. Touch can also be important. Holding the residence hand as you sit quietly can be very comforting.