Elders adapting to a chronic diagnosis within a nursing refuge

Area of Science:

• Nursing Care
• Gerontology
• Chronic Disease Management

Background:

• Rising chronic disease prevalence strains nursing resources.
• Newly diagnosed elderly patients require specialized support to navigate altered health statuses.
• Patient responses to diagnosis are influenced by culture, age, and coping mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the challenges elderly patients face with new chronic disease diagnoses.
• To identify how nurses can create supportive environments for these patients.
• To examine the dichotomous responses patients may experience.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative exploration of patient experiences and nurse interventions.
• Analysis of patient responses through six dichotomous pairs.
• Framework for creating a therapeutic nurse-patient sanctuary.

Main Results:

• Elderly patients experience a range of complex emotions and reactions to diagnosis.
• Nurses can facilitate adaptation by providing protected space, presence, and partnership.
• A focus on past-to-future orientation and perspective aids patient coping.

Conclusions:

• Nurses play a critical role in supporting elderly patients with chronic illnesses.
• Creating a sanctuary is essential for helping patients manage uncertainty and challenges.
• This supportive approach can reaffirm nurses' commitment to patient care.