How would you feel about taking care of a patient as the one described?

Nursing Students General Students

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"The patient is a white female who appears her reported age. She neither speaks nor comprehends the spoken word. Sometimes she babbles incoherently for hours on end. She is disoriented about person, place and time. She does; however, seem to recognize her own name. I have worked with her for the past six months, but she still doesn't recognize me.

"She shows complete disregard for her physical appearance and makes no effort whatsoever to assist in her own care. She must be fed, bathed and clothed by others. Because she is toothless, her food must be pureed; because she is incontinent of both urine and stool, she must be changed and bathed often. Her shirt is generally soiled from almost constant drooling. She does not walk. Her sleep pattern is erratic. Often, she awakens in the middle of the night, and her screaming awakens others.

"Most of the time she is very friendly and happy. However, several times a day she gets quite agitated without apparent cause. Then she screams loudly until someone comes to comfort her."

This was wonderful. After spending a great deal of time with my Grandmother in a nursing home, and witnessing the uncompassionate care that she received, I always vowed that If I had the same opportunity that her nurses had that I would be more considerate. As you said, the elderly, just like babies, cannot control what is happening to their minds and bodies, but deserve to be as happy and comfortable as possible.

Specializes in critical care.

That was beautiful. I will have to try to remember that.

Interesting, perhaps this is why I am drawn to the very old and the very young. Also this might be why these two groups seem to be drawn to one another.

I am going to try to print this it is worth saving. Thanks

Not the easiest type of patient, but I wouldn't mind. I think thats due in part to the mental health background but I know many people would feel timid or some even scared.

Wow, very good. Thanks for sharing.

Jenny

I too had to read it over... It is wonderful and I thank you for sharing.. I have children and do see how it is easier to care for infants than the elderly but the elderly deserve every bit of our care and compassion. Eventually, we will be there one day and will need the same in return. (sorry for reality check)

Lynda

Ahhh...see, my mental health background had me thinking along the lines of developmental disability or mental illness. *now* I do see the infant perspective.

In America,we have some cultures who just throw the elderly away, abuse them or ignore them. It sucks, and this helps me to be gentler, kinder, more respectful.

Not only do they deserve it---but one day I will be there too.

That was beautiful....must admit that I didn't get it at first reading, but it is a very powerful message. Thank you.

This was great. It confirmed what I have always believed; that perception is EVERYTHING. I will probably be working in LTC for awhile; although it was something I never wanted to do. But I am working on changing my perceptions and this will definitely help. I will try to always remember it. Thank you.

Specializes in ICU-Stepdown.

I have to admit that as soon as I started reading it, I thought of an accident victim (severe head trauma), someone approaching the age of Methusela, or a baby.

It definately made me think. I'd rather it were a baby, for a patient that was of old age, and in this condition, that would be very depressing.

Betts,

Thankyou so much for sharing that with us. That was a very moving speech. I loved it!! I am not a nurse yet... however I am working in the hospital setting right now. There is a patient that is described in your speech, but is actually only in there early 30's. She requires constant care and sometimes there just isn't enough time and people to help. Also sometimes I see that the nurses, for whatever reasons do not treat some patients as they should be treated. I actually brought this to my work for everyone to read, so mabye they would think differently in the future.

Thanks for sharing!

Steph

As many of you know I am a Stroke Nurse- when I read your speech I automatically thought of my patients, early stage

Did not think in lateral terms but if I may I will copy this thread and use later

Thank you so much

j;)

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