Question

Formulate a short teaching plan related to Dementia that can be given to a patient and his/her family member/s which includes: Patient needs assessment - systematic process for determining and addressing needs, or gaps.

Answer 1

Ans) Dementia:

slow, unnoticeable
-chronic
-no LOC changes
-normal speech
-Misidentification, delusions, jealously, belongings
- Wide range of feelings
-Appearance matches feelings.

Expected outcomes:

Patient will remain safe and injury free,
-With assistance will remain oriented to level of ability
-Will maintain ability to perform ADLs
-Will not harm self or others
-Family will identify and use available support/services
-Will be able to discuss positive aspects of life.

Implementation:

- Agitation during ADLs-start with least threatening body part

-Provide support for family caregiver- feelings of loss, grief, role change, community.

- use of simple games/activities, use short teaching segments, assess readiness to learn, ability to learn.

- use pictures, gestures, a quiet environment.

- that they are common (90% of patients with alzheimers), that the behaviors are not intentional and should not be taken personally, redirect focus might be helpful, reassuring safety is important, use of repetitive activities might soothe patient.

- Provide favorite foods, nutritional supplements.

-Relaxed assistance with eating
-Weights
-May use medication to stimulate appetite
-If family to drive may use ECT (Electronic compulsive therapy)