Healing and supporting recovery for people who are ill Flashcards
How are treatments narrowed down?
They are narrowed to meet a person’s specific health and social care needs
Who may prescribe medication?
Doctors primarily do this, however nurses may train to become nurse prescribers, other healthcare professionals such as dentists, physiotherapists and chiropodists may do this
What is surgery?
Surgery- Will play a part in an individual’s recovery from illness and other physical disorders. Cancerous tumours may be removed via surgery if cancer is diagnosed early. Older people may require hip or knee replacement surgery. Health and care workers have a role in supporting people after surgery, such as visits from the district nurse to provide treatments such as changing dressings. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists may be involved to promote mobility and assist in daily living activities. Social workers may provide emotional support and ensure patient is accessing available services. Home care workers may provide practical help in home, such as preparing meals when necessary. Community support is important for patients as they will continue recovering outside of the hospital.
What is radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy- Treatment using high energy radiation, it is planned by skilled radiotherapists and a team which includes highly trained nurses and radiographers. Radiotherapy is primarily used in cancer treatment however it can be used to help other conditions such as diseases from thyroid gland and blood disorders. Patients may need GP support after radiotherapy to ensure full healing. Common side effects of radiotherapy are itchiness, peeling, blistering of the skin.
What are organ transplants?
Organ transplant- Moving body part/organ from one person’s body to another, or a person’s body part from one part of a person’s body to the other. The transplant replaces the damaged/absent organ. Organs which can be transplanted are the heart, kidney, lungs, liver, pancreas, and intestines. Heart, liver, and kidney transplants are the most common. A living donor can transplant one kidney, part of their liver, and other tissues such as bone marrow. Other transplants may come from dead donors so in recovery, the person may need a counsellor. Highly skilled surgeons and their team will carry out the transplant, however more care professionals will be involved in physical preparation for the transplant, such as specialist nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, counsellors, and social workers will provide post operative support.
What is support for lifestyle changes?
Support for lifestyle changes- Changing harmful routines, patterns and habits are essential to improving health. Counselling and self-help groups may help implement lifestyle changes, for example, a healthier diet, or more exercise, or reducing cigarette and alcohol consumption. Healthcare professionals such as GP’s, practice nurses, and district nurses can assist individuals to set up self-help groups by allowing them to meet in a room of a GP practice.
what do specialist agencies do?
Many specialist agencies promote the health and wellbeing of individuals, specifically those with specific illnesses or disorders.
Give some examples of specialist agencies
- Age UK: provides services and support to promote the health and wellbeing of older people
- Mind: Provides advice and support for people with mental health problems, campaigns to improve awareness and services for people with mental health issues.
- YoungMind- Improving mental health of young children through individual support and through campaigning for improved services
- Royal National Institute of Blind People- Supports people with sight loss, people partially sighted and blind
- Alzheimer’s society- Provides information and support for people living with dementia and their families and carers. Funds research and promotes awareness of the condition.
