Describe Alma Faulkenberger, An 85-Year-Old Female Outpatien ✓ Solved

Describe Alma Faulkenberger is an 85-year-old female outpatient sitt

Developing a comprehensive plan to ensure Alma Faulkenberger's compliance with her upcoming invasive pelvic procedure and post-treatment medications requires a multifaceted approach that addresses her individual needs, communication preferences, and potential barriers. Additionally, effective patient education tailored to her circumstances is essential to promote understanding, cooperation, and positive health outcomes.

Assessment of Patient Needs and Barriers

Initial assessment involves understanding Alma's health literacy, sensory abilities (such as hearing or vision impairment), cognitive status, cultural background, and personal preferences (Berman & Snyder, 2019). Given her age, it is possible she may experience sensory deficits, as evidenced by her previous frustration when her name was mispronounced.

Developing a Plan for Compliance

1. Effective Communication Strategies

Consistent and respectful communication is vital. Using clear, simple language and verifying understanding through teach-back methods can enhance compliance (Schillinger et al., 2003). Since Alma is sensitive about her name being mispronounced, the healthcare team should introduce themselves clearly, seek to learn her preferred name, and confirm pronunciation and spelling before approaching her again (Baldwin et al., 2020).

2. Personalizing the Approach

Addressing Alma by her preferred name in a calm tone, maintaining eye contact if appropriate, and ensuring she feels respected can foster trust. Avoid shouting or abrupt gestures, as these can increase anxiety or confusion, especially in elderly patients (Anderson et al., 2019).

3. Involving Family or Caregivers

If Alma has family members or caregivers involved in her care, engaging them can improve communication, provide emotional support, and assist with medication adherence post-discharge (Schulz & Tompkins, 2018).

4. Environmental Considerations

Create a calm, quiet environment to help Alma focus and reduce stress. Using visual aids or written instructions can be particularly effective, especially if she has mild sensory deficits (Riegel et al., 2020).

Post-Treatment Medication Management

1. Clear Instructions

Providing written discharge instructions in large print, simple language, and with illustrations can enhance understanding. Reviewing these instructions verbally and using teach-back ensures comprehension (Kirk et al., 2022).

2. Medication Reconciliation

Ensure medication lists are accurate and include any prescribed post-procedure medications, along with detailed instructions on dosage, timing, and potential side effects. Confirm her understanding and address any concerns (Carter & O’Brien, 2019).

3. Follow-up Plan

Arrange follow-up calls or appointments to monitor adherence and address complications promptly. Encourage her to contact healthcare providers with any concerns or symptoms (Fletcher et al., 2021).

Patient Education Approach

1. Tailored Education

Recognize Alma’s individual learning style, cultural background, and health literacy. Use plain language and avoid medical jargon. Employ visual aids, demonstration, and written materials if appropriate (Bull et al., 2018).

2. Active Engagement

Encourage questions and discussions to ensure comprehension. Use teach-back methods, asking her to repeat information in her own words (Kring & Lewis, 2020).

3. Building Trust and Respect

Establish rapport by demonstrating empathy, patience, and respect for her dignity. Listen actively and validate her concerns to foster a collaborative relationship (McMillan et al., 2020).

4. Addressing Sensory and Cognitive Needs

If hearing impairment is suspected, use assistive devices or strategies such as speaking slowly, facing her directly, and ensuring hearing aids are used. Simplify information and repeat key points as needed (McCarthy & Bass, 2019).

Conclusion

Ensuring Alma's compliance requires addressing communication barriers, personalizing interactions, involving her support system, and providing clear, accessible education. Approaching her with respect and sensitivity can improve her cooperation and overall patient experience, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.

References

• Baldwin, P. B., et al. (2020). Effective communication strategies for older adults. Journal of Geriatric Nursing, 41(2), 58-65.
• Berman, A., & Snyder, S. (2019). Kozier & Erb's Fundamentals of Nursing. Pearson.
• Fletcher, G. S., et al. (2021). Post-discharge follow-up to improve medication adherence among elderly patients. Patient Education and Counseling, 104(4), 785-792.
• Kirk, M., et al. (2022). Enhancing medication adherence through simplified instructions. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, 79(4), 299-304.
• Kring, M., & Lewis, S. (2020). Teaching and learning strategies for health professionals. Clinical Nursing Studies, 8(2), 18-26.
• McCarthy, E., & Bass, C. (2019). Addressing sensory deficits in older adults: Practical strategies. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(9), 1804-1814.
• McMillan, S. S., et al. (2020). Building rapport with older adults: Strategies for healthcare providers. Patient Preference and Adherence, 14, 2195-2204.
• Riegel, B., et al. (2020). Enhancing patient understanding through visual aids in nursing education. Journal of Nursing Education, 59(3), 137-144.
• Scheillinger, D., et al. (2003). Applying teach-back to improve patient understanding of medication use. Patient Education and Counseling, 49(2), 177-182.
• Schulz, R., & Tompkins, C. (2018). Involving family caregivers in chronic illness management. Family & Community Health, 41(4), 275-282.