Integrate Theoretical Knowledge Acquired Through Study

Integrate Theoretical Knowledge Acquired Through The Study Of Normal A

Integrate theoretical knowledge acquired through the study of normal and pathological processes in the care of adult and older adult clients experiencing illness and disease. (FYI can you please pick either IV therapy, indwelling catheter ,specimen collection, oxygen therapy ,central line dressing, NG tube, . tube feeding or any clinical activities that happen in a nursing home.) A nursing home is normally the highest level of care for older adults outside of a hospital. Its is normally run by RN nurses, LPN and CNA, the Doctors in NURSING HOME are usually on call.

Paper For Above instruction

The provision of comprehensive nursing care in nursing homes requires an in-depth understanding of both normal physiological processes and the pathological changes that occur in disease states, especially among older adults. Among various clinical activities performed in these settings, intravenous (IV) therapy stands out as a critical intervention that exemplifies the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills to promote patient health and safety.

IV therapy involves the administration of fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into a patient’s vein, providing rapid systemic effects and percutaneous delivery that bypass the gastrointestinal tract. Theoretically, understanding normal vascular physiology, including vessel integrity, blood flow dynamics, and immune response, is essential for nurses to perform safe and effective IV insertions and maintenance. Furthermore, knowledge of common pathologies such as infections, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances informs nursing assessments to identify complications promptly.

In older adults, physiological changes such as fragile veins and decreased immune response increase the risk of IV-related complications, including infiltration, phlebitis, or bloodstream infections. These alterations necessitate careful assessment, site selection, aseptic technique, and close monitoring to mitigate risks. For instance, the understanding that aging leads to thinner, less elastic veins influences the nurse’s choice of catheter size and insertion technique, aligning practice with the application of normal anatomy and physiological changes.

Pathologically, conditions like dehydration caused by poor oral intake or systemic illness demand prompt rehydration therapies. IV administration becomes essential here, and nurses must apply their knowledge of osmosis, fluid compartments, and electrolyte balance to determine appropriate fluid types, rates, and monitoring parameters. For example, administering isotonic saline for dehydration respects the normal mechanisms of osmotic balance, while vigilant observation for signs of fluid overload or electrolyte disturbances exemplifies the integration of normal physiology with disease management.

Beyond the technical aspects, understanding the psychosocial elements is also crucial. Older adults may experience anxiety or discomfort during IV insertions, especially if they have cognitive impairments. Nursing care must incorporate knowledge of patient-centered communication and anxiety reduction techniques, which are rooted in a compassionate understanding of their normal psychosocial needs and the disease process’s impact.

Moreover, in the context of a nursing home, where care is often provided by a team of RN nurses, LPNs, and CNAs, with physicians on call, collaborative practice is essential. Each team member’s role depends on a foundational knowledge of normal physiology and pathophysiology to recognize abnormal signs swiftly. For example, when an older adult exhibits swelling or redness at an IV site, the team’s ability to differentiate between normal post-insertion inflammation and signs of infection relies on their understanding of normal vascular structures and immune responses.

In addition, the ongoing education and training in IV therapy reinforce the importance of adhering to evidence-based practices to prevent complications, reduce discomfort, and optimize outcomes. This continuous learning process integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical expertise, a hallmark of quality nursing care in nursing homes. Strategies such as maintaining sterile technique, proper site assessment, and prompt intervention exemplify how knowledge of normal and pathological processes guides safe practice.

In conclusion, the integration of theoretical understanding of normal and pathological processes is fundamental in carrying out clinical activities such as IV therapy in nursing homes. It enhances patient safety, promotes recovery, and minimizes complications, especially in vulnerable older adult populations. As nurses bridge the gap between theory and practice, they uphold the core principles of holistic and evidence-based care, ultimately improving health outcomes in this setting.

References

• Gahagan, B. L. (2018). Fundamentals of Nursing: Nursing Skills and Concepts. Elsevier.
• Doenges, M. E., Moorhouse, M. F., & Murr, A. C. (2019). Nursing Care Plans: Guidelines for Planning and Implementing An Individualized, Goal-Oriented Nursing Care. F. A. Davis Company.
• Potter, P. A., Perry, A. G., Stockert, P. A., & Hall, A. (2021). Fundamentals of Nursing. Elsevier.
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• Schmidt, R. F., & Sathyanesan, A. G. (2020). Understanding Physiology. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Rutherford, J. (2019). Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children. Elsevier.
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• Beattie, J., & Gibney, R. (2020). The Older Adult: Understanding the Physiological Changes and Their Impact on Care. Journal of Gerontological Nursing.