Chapter 19, Problem 4RP

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

How might the lack of any home care interventions affect the outcome of Mrs. P?

Case summary:

Mrs. P is a single, 88-year-old woman, was hospitalized for cardiac problems. She has been in her beginning of dementia. She lives alone in a small home along with her cats. When she was ordered for the discharge, the nursing student worried about Mrs. P’s ability to live safely on her own. The nursing student suggested her about moving to a retirement community or long-term care facility. But Mrs. P refused those options. The nursing student was worried about her safety and reported to the charge nurse. The charge nurse replied that we can do nothing if the patient is not willing to explore the other options.

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

What safety measures could be enacted that would allow Mrs. P the opportunity to request assistance when needed?

Case summary:

Mrs. P is a single, 88-year-old woman, was hospitalized for cardiac problems. She has been in her beginning of dementia. She lives alone in a small home along with her cats. When she was ordered for the discharge, the nursing student worried about Mrs. P’s ability to live safely on her own. The nursing student suggested her about moving to a retirement community or long-term care facility. But Mrs. P refused those options. The nursing student was worried about her safety and reported to the charge nurse. The charge nurse replied that we can do nothing if the patient is not willing to explore the other options.

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

What evidence in nursing literature provides guidance for decision-making regarding patients living alone with impaired cognition?

Case summary:

Mrs. P is a single, 88-year-old woman, was hospitalized for cardiac problems. She has been in her beginning of dementia. She lives alone in a small home along with her cats. When she was ordered for the discharge, the nursing student worried about Mrs. P’s ability to live safely on her own. The nursing student suggested her about moving to a retirement community or long-term care facility. But Mrs. P refused those options. The nursing student was worried about her safety and reported to the charge nurse. The charge nurse replied that we can do nothing if the patient is not willing to explore the other options.