Mr. Hazel, 72 years old with a history of dementia

QUESTION

Mr. Hazel, 72 years old with a history of dementia, was admit to long-term care center3 weeks ago following a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) A college, who is caring for Mr. Hazel today, advise the practical nurse that Mr. Hazel is tired angrily refused his mooring care. What should the practical nurse do? a. Allow Mr. Hazel to sleep and assist with his care when he awakes. b. Advise the colleague to speak louder and slower to ensure that Mr. Hazel understands. c. Prepare ordered p.r.n medication for Mr. Hazel’s aggressive episodes d. Assist Mr. Hazel and allow the colleague to help someone else.

ANSWER

In this scenario, the practical nurse is faced with a situation where Mr. Hazel, a 72-year-old individual with dementia who recently experienced a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is refusing his morning care and displaying anger. When handling such a situation, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being and dignity of the patient while ensuring their safety and providing appropriate care. Here’s how the practical nurse should respond:

Assist Mr. Hazel and allow the colleague to help someone else

Explanation:
1. Prioritizing Patient Care and Dignity: It’s crucial to attend to Mr. Hazel’s needs and provide the care he requires. Allowing him to refuse care without attempting to assist him could compromise his health and well-being. Dementia patients, like Mr. Hazel, may have difficulty communicating their needs or understanding the importance of care routines. Therefore, offering assistance is essential to maintain their health.

2. Safety Considerations: Mr. Hazel’s refusal and display of anger may be due to the cognitive challenges associated with dementia. It’s important to approach him with sensitivity and prioritize safety. By assisting him, the practical nurse can ensure that necessary care, such as hygiene, medications, and mobility support, is provided safely to prevent potential complications or falls.

3. Teamwork: In a healthcare setting, teamwork and collaboration are essential. Allowing the colleague to help someone else ensures that other patients receive timely care. It’s a practical approach to managing workload and ensuring that patients’ needs are met efficiently.

4. Communication and Patience: While assisting Mr. Hazel, the practical nurse should communicate calmly and patiently. Dementia patients may respond better to gentle and reassuring communication. Taking the time to explain the care procedures and providing choices when possible can help mitigate resistance.

In summary, the practical nurse’s priority is to assist Mr. Hazel in receiving the necessary care while maintaining his dignity and safety. By doing so, the nurse can address Mr. Hazel’s immediate needs and contribute to his overall well-being, despite the challenges associated with dementia and his emotional state.