• List an additional five ways they could meet their own clients’ needs.
• Expand on the rationale your peer used in their original discussion post.
• You must support your position with high-level research and or evidence-based resources as citations and references.

Case 1: A female patient, 25 years old with a history of seizures, including grand mals. She had extreme memory issues and was not able to remember when, or which, medications to take. She also lived alone so, if she had a seizure, no one even knew about it. For this patient we were able to get her a special watch to monitor her vitals and recognize symptoms of a seizure. It would then alert a couple of her contacts so they could follow up and make sure she was safe and didn’t need additional help. She had had one incidence where she fell and hit her head during a grand mal, and was unconscious on the floor, bleeding, for an unknown amount of time. Being able to research and find this device for her gave her back a small sense of security. We also set her up with a detailed alarm system that alerts her each time she needs to take her medication. The overall goal was to help her still feel self-sufficient, while keeping her safe and compliant with her medical requirements, and we definitely succeeded!

Case 2: Male patient, 55 years old. This man had moderate to severe visual impairment following an accident. Everything further away than 5 feet was blurry. In his room, everything was moved as close to him as possible, without impeding space for care, so as to make him feel more comfortable and avoid him straining. Furniture was moved farther apart and all tripping hazards (cords/wires) were removed. There was also education given to his family so that they would be able to assist him yet still allow him to maintain his way of living, both socially and emotionally.

Case 3: Male patient, 6 years old. This young boy presented with all the signs of extreme autism, but was yet to be diagnosed. He had severe sensory overload and was developmentally delayed. To avoid excess stimulation, the room was kept quiet and the lights were turned down slightly during examination. It was recommended that he meet with an occupational and speech therapist to assess and develop a plan of care.

Case 4: Female patient, 67 years old. This woman has dealt with chronic pain for years, and recently has become obese due to simply not wanting to move. The traditional pain medications aren’t working. I would suggest for her to look into CAM treatment (acupuncture, massage) to help treat her pain enough that she can start exercising. I would also love for her to meet with a nutritionist that can help her analyze her diet and institute some positive changes.

Case 5: Female patient, 4 years old. Presented with hearing loss and developmental delays due to her disability. I would suggest that she, and her parents, meet with an occupational therapist to come up with the best plan possible to help. I also like the idea of specific safety precautions, like visual or physical cues for fire alarms and alerts, for her. Counseling or support groups for the parents to learn how to assist her would be a great idea too so that they are doing all they can to support her.

References:

Mooney, O., McNicholl, A., Lambert, V., & Gallagher, P. (2021). Self-management in children and young people with epilepsy: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. Journal of Health Psychology, 26(1), 126-139. https://doi-org.ezproxy.plu.edu/10.1177/1359105320963536Links to an external site.

Nastasi, J. (2019). The Social Participation of Older Adults Living With a Visual Impairment. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 37(4), 282-297. https://doi-org.ezproxy.plu.edu/10.1080/02703181.2019.1648625Links to an external site.

Preis, J., & McKenna, M. (2014). The effects of sensory integration therapy on verbal expression and engagement in children with autism. International Journal of Therapy & Rehabilitation, 21(10), 476-486.

Fowler-Brown, A., Wee, C. C., Marcantonio, E., Ngo, L., & Leveille, S. (2013). The Mediating Effect of Chronic Pain on the Relationship Between Obesity and Physical Function and Disability in Older Adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 61(12), 2079-2086. https://doi-org.ezproxy.plu.edu/10.1111/jgs.12512Links to an external site.

GUIGNARD, G. H., & GOLDSTEIN, L. A. (2023). When Hearing Loss Is Diagnosed: Navigating Resources. Exceptional Parent, 53(1), 41-43.

ANSWER

Enhancing Patient-Centered Care Through Additional Approaches

In the healthcare field, meeting the unique needs of patients is paramount, and healthcare providers must continually seek innovative ways to enhance patient well-being and improve the quality of care. The cases presented here demonstrate creative solutions to address patients’ distinct needs, but there are additional strategies and approaches that can be employed to further enhance patient care and outcomes.

Case 1: Patient with Seizures and Memory Issues
While the special watch and medication alarm system are commendable interventions, additional measures could be implemented. The patient could benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address anxiety related to seizures and memory loss. Moreover, telehealth services with a neurologist may help in fine-tuning her medication regimen and seizure management.

Case 2: Visually Impaired Patient
Beyond rearranging furniture and educating the family, this patient may benefit from orientation and mobility training to enhance his independence. Assistive technology, such as screen readers or magnifiers, should also be considered. Furthermore, counseling services may help him adapt to the emotional challenges of visual impairment.

Case 3: Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
In addition to a quiet examination room, the child may benefit from sensory modulation interventions, such as sensory diets, to reduce sensory overload. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy can be effective for children with ASD, helping with behavior management and skill development. Parent training programs and support groups should also be offered to empower the parents in providing consistent care.

Case 4: Elderly Patient with Chronic Pain and Obesity
Incorporating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) or chiropractic care, alongside acupuncture and massage, can provide holistic pain management. A multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy, dietetics, and psychology is essential to address obesity and chronic pain simultaneously.

Case 5: Child with Hearing Loss and Developmental Delays
Besides visual or physical cues for fire alarms, the child could benefit from augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices or sign language training to facilitate communication. Parental involvement in speech therapy sessions is crucial for the child’s progress. Additionally, counseling services can support parents in navigating the emotional aspects of raising a child with hearing loss.

Incorporating these additional strategies aligns with a patient-centered approach and can contribute to improved outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction. These recommendations are supported by evidence-based resources and the principles of comprehensive care.