Teacher’s Summary: This care study examines the rehabilitation of Mrs. Eileen Adams, a 93-year-old patient with multiple health conditions, following recurrent falls. Utilizing the Roper-Logan-Tierney model of nursing, a holistic assessment identified key needs in mobility, personal cleansing, and safety. The multidisciplinary team’s care plan, involving physiotherapists and occupational therapists, promoted Mrs. Adams’ independence and self-esteem. Active patient involvement in decision-making led to successful outcomes, including improved mobility and self-care, enabling her return home. The study underscores the importance of patient-centered care, teamwork, and continuous assessment in elderly rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Care Study: Holistic Approach to Elderly Patient
Introduction
This care study focuses on Mrs. Eileen Adams (name changed for confidentiality), a 93-year-old patient admitted to a care of the elderly ward for rehabilitation following recurrent falls. The study explores her care using a holistic assessment approach.
Patient Background
Mrs. Adams lives alone in a semi-detached bungalow, with her son and daughter-in-law as primary carers living nearby. Prior to admission, she was largely independent but had recently experienced a decline in mobility and self-care abilities. She has multiple health conditions, including congestive cardiac failure, hypertension, and arthritis.
Assessment and Care Planning
The Roper-Logan-Tierney model of nursing practice was used to assess Mrs. Adams’ needs. Key areas requiring assistance were:
- Mobilizing
- Personal cleansing and dressing
- Maintaining a safe environment
A falls assessment and moving and handling assessment were also conducted. The multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapists and occupational therapists, worked together to develop a care plan focusing on these areas.
Rehabilitation Process
Mobility
- Initially transferred using a full hoist
- Physiotherapy sessions twice daily
- Progressed to mobilizing with a frame within a week
- Focus on promoting independence and self-esteem
Personal Cleansing and Dressing
- Occupational therapy assessment conducted
- Encouraged to perform tasks independently where possible
- Assistance provided only when necessary
- Emphasis on maintaining dignity and privacy
Decision Making and Patient Involvement
Mrs. Adams was actively involved in her care decisions, promoting empowerment and adhering to patient-centered care principles. The team balanced providing assistance and encouraging independence throughout the rehabilitation process.
Outcomes
The rehabilitation process was successful:
- Mrs. Adams regained mobility with a frame
- Her ability to perform personal care tasks improved
- She was able to return home with family support
Reflection
This case study highlighted the importance of:
- Patient-centered goal planning
- Multidisciplinary teamwork
- Promoting patient autonomy and self-efficacy
- Continuous assessment and evaluation of progress
Conclusion
Mrs. Adams’ rehabilitation was a success, demonstrating the effectiveness of a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. The experience provided valuable insights into the rehabilitation process and the crucial role of nursing in promoting patient independence and well-being.
Works Cited:
Cox, Carol, et al. The Roper-Logan-Tierney Model in Action. Macmillan International Higher Education, 2008.
McCormack, Brendan, et al. Person-Centred Healthcare Research. Wiley-Blackwell, 2017.
Parker, Mike, et al. “Multidisciplinary Teamwork and the Care of Older Adults.” International Journal of Integrated Care, vol. 19, no. 4, 2019, www.ijic.org/articles/10.5334/ijic.4620/.
Royal College of Nursing. “Falls: Applying All Our Health.” Royal College of Nursing, www.rcn.org.uk/clinical-topics/older-people/falls.
World Health Organization. “Integrated Care for Older People: Guidelines on Community-Level Interventions to Manage Declines in Intrinsic Capacity.” World Health Organization, 2017, www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550109.
