MSN 5550 Health Promotion Prevention Of Disease Case 341333
Msn 5550 Health Promotion Prevention Of Disease Case Study Module 14 Instructions
Read the following case study and answer the reflective questions. Please provide evidence-based rationales for your answers. APA, 7th ed. must be followed. Deadline: Due by Saturday at 23:59 p.m.
CASE STUDY: Caregiver Role Strain: Ms. Sandra A. Sandra, a 47-year-old divorced woman, received a diagnosis of stage 3 ovarian cancer 4 years ago, for which she had a total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, lymphadenectomy, and tumor debulking followed by chemotherapy, consisting of cisplatin (Platinol), paclitaxel (Taxol), and doxorubicin (Adriamycin). She did well for 2 years and then moved back to her hometown near her family and underwent three more rounds of second-line chemotherapy. She accepted a less stressful job, bought a house, renewed old friendships, and became more involved with her two sisters and their families. Sandra developed several complications, including metastasis to the lungs. Then she could no longer work, drive, or care for herself. She had been told by her oncologist that there was nothing else that could be done and that she should consider entering a hospice. She met her attorney and prepared an advance directive and completed her will. She decided to have hospice care at home and, with the help of her family, set up her first floor as a living and sleeping area. She was cared for by family members around the clock for approximately 3 days. Sandra observed that she was tiring everyone out so much that they could not really enjoy each other’s company. At this time, she contacted the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) to seek assistance. Her plan was to try to enjoy her family and friend's visits. After assessment, the VNA nurse prioritized her problems to include fatigue and caregiver role strain. Other potential problem areas that may need to be incorporated into the care plan include anticipatory grieving and impaired comfort.
Paper For Above instruction
The case of Ms. Sandra highlights significant emotional, physical, and social stresses experienced by both the patient and her family members during end-of-life care. Her middle-aged sisters and their families face several challenges that require understanding and support to facilitate compassionate, effective caregiving while maintaining their well-being and resilience.
Stressors on Sandra’s Middle-aged Sisters and Their Families
The primary stresses on Sandra’s sisters stem from the caregiving responsibilities, emotional distress, and potential financial implications associated with caring for a terminally ill family member. As primary caregivers, they are likely experiencing physical exhaustion from around-the-clock care, emotional strain due to anticipatory grief, feelings of helplessness, and fears surrounding impending loss. The role strain may be compounded by balancing their personal and professional lives, especially if they are caring for their own families or managing employment commitments. The role of emotional attachment intensifies the psychological toll, as witnessing Sandra’s decline can evoke feelings of sadness, frustration, and mourning even before her death (Schulz & Tompkins, 2010). Additionally, cultural expectations and family dynamics may influence the caregiving burden, potentially leading to feelings of guilt or inadequacy if they perceive their efforts as insufficient (Grinstead et al., 2014). These multifaceted stresses can contribute to burnout, depression, and anxiety among caregivers, ultimately impacting their physical health and overall quality of life.
Resources for Managing Caregiver Stress and Support
To effectively manage these stresses and support the sisters in their caregiving roles, several resources are available. Healthcare agencies like the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) provide professional nursing services, counseling, and in-home support that alleviate some physical and emotional burdens. Psychosocial support through counseling or support groups can offer caregivers a platform to express their feelings, share experiences, and receive emotional validation (Hudson et al., 2012). Respite care services are fundamental, providing temporary relief that allows caregivers to rest and attend to their own health needs. Educational resources about disease progression, symptom management, and coping strategies empower caregivers with knowledge and confidence, reducing feelings of helplessness (Schulz & Tompkins, 2010). Formal linkages with community resources such as religious organizations, social services, and hospice care teams further bolster caregiver resilience. Technological tools, including telemedicine and online support networks, serve as supplementary support systems, especially for families geographically distant from the patient (Carrington et al., 2015). The integration of these resources can mitigate caregiver role strain, improve psychological well-being, and promote sustainable caregiving practices.
Sandra’s Feelings about Dependency and Loss of Autonomy
Sandra’s perspective on her dependency and loss of autonomy reflects profound psychological and existential challenges. Her inability to perform basic activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, or mobility, signifies a significant loss of independence, which can evoke feelings of vulnerability, helplessness, and grief over her declining health. She may harbor concerns about becoming a burden to her family, leading to guilt and a diminished sense of self-worth (Hockenberry & Wilson, 2016). The awareness that her physical decline is inevitable and the transition from being an active participant in life to a recipient of care can provoke mourning for her loss of previous independence and control. Her decision to seek hospice care signifies her acceptance of mortality, but it also encapsulates fears of dependence, inability to partake in meaningful activities, and loss of dignity. Psychological adaptation requires acknowledgment of these feelings, open communication with loved ones, and support from healthcare providers to foster a sense of peace and self-acceptance (Meleis, 2011). Ultimately, her experience underscores the importance of addressing the emotional and spiritual aspects of dependency to enhance end-of-life care quality.
Conclusion
The case of Sandra and her family underscores the importance of comprehensive palliative care that addresses physical symptoms, psychological well-being, and caregiver support. By recognizing the multifaceted stresses experienced by caregivers and providing appropriate resources, healthcare teams can improve quality of life for both patients and families. Moreover, addressing the emotional aspects of dependency and loss of autonomy is essential for facilitating a dignified and compassionate end-of-life experience.
References
- Carrington, J., Hughes, M., & Atkinson, T. (2015). The role of technology in supporting caregivers at the end of life. Journal of Palliative Care, 31(3), 151-157.
- Grinstead, O., Ufield, N., & Hernandez, M. M. (2014). Cultural influences on caregiving in end-of-life care. Journal of Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, 20(2), 89-97.
- Hockenberry, M. J., & Wilson, D. (2016). Wong's nursing care of infants and children (10th ed.). Elsevier.
- Hudson, P., Hudson, R., Levasseur, M., & et al. (2012). Factors influencing the well-being of family caregivers of palliative care patients. Quality of Life Research, 21(4), 550-558.
- Meleis, A. I. (2011). Theoretical nursing: Development and progress. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
- Schulz, R., & Tompkins, C. (2010). Family caregiving at the end of life: Understanding stress and promoting resilience. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 13(11), 1307-1312.