Here's my part of the poster presentation I have to give on mental health issues in the elderly "an overview of assessment parameters for the area of health concern. Focus on data that can be collected by observation/inspection skills, as well as discussion with client, staff, and family, as well as access to medical records". I just need it put into simpler terms, I understans it, but lay terms would help me get the simplified idea, and help me to write this stupid thing. Thanks!!!
2007-03-10 03:04:10 · 5 answers · asked by kristinjenkins@rogers.com 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
1) Focus on data that can be collected by observation/inspection skills: The following will help evaluate whether or not the patient needs assistance in the area of health concerns:
When you walk into the patient's room, what do you see? Is his/her appearance neat, clean, well-groomed, or is that person disheveled and unkempt? Are the surroundings clean, or are ther obvious signs of garbage/bugs/rodents visible? Are the refrigerator/pantry well stocked with nutritious foods? Does the person have visible bruises? Is the patient able to accomplish activities of daily living such as toileting, bathing, grooming, walking, or is there someone present who is assisting with these things? Is the pt. talkative, quiet, happy? What does the patient's affect tell you? Is their expression flat or animated?
2) What does the patient say to the questions you ask? Does she say she's "fine" but her appearance, affect, and surroundings say otherwise? Is the family helpful or can you access if there is friction? What does the staff say about the patient/family relationship? Outside help may be needed if pt's needs are not being met.
3) Read the chart.....what notes have been written by the nurses, nurse's aids, dr.'s, physical therapists, food and nutrition, social workers?
All of the above help give a well-rounded overview of what the patient's health concerns are. They will help you decide if the pt. is being abused, properly nourished, getting the right meds at the right times, or is in need of home health care.
By asking questions and observing, you may be able to determine the pt's state of mind...does the pt. have dementia? Depression, Paranoia? Mood Disorders?
Hope this helps you!! It's amazing just how much information is available just by observing and questioning!!
2007-03-10 04:02:15 · answer #1 · answered by CertPsychRN 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What this means is that you're focusing on the group (ie. age group) that has the particular area for mental health concern. It's telling you to interpret (see and analyze) the information being presented from various sources, as you have mentioned:
- observation/inspection skills
- discussions with client(s)/staff/family
- medical records
If I were you, I would use bar graphs, charts, etc. to help explain the information being presented. It helps the reader/viewer/grader easily grasp what you're trying to say. Remember, a picture is worth more than a thousand words! = )
2007-03-10 12:11:04 · answer #2 · answered by Yahoo! Answered 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Give a summary on areas that concern the elderly. Make some observations of your own and then get data that can be obtained through professionals, the elderly themselves and their families. Consult medical records for additional information.
2007-03-10 11:35:16 · answer #3 · answered by balderarrow 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Identify and list those sources of data you will use to assess for mental health disorders in an elderly population?
2007-03-10 11:14:11 · answer #4 · answered by Opester 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
observe, interview, evaluate available literature.
2007-03-10 11:08:03 · answer #5 · answered by zaphodsclone 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋