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Advocacy for the mentally impaired elderly: a case study analysis
1Department of Physiological Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco.
American Journal of Law & Medicine
|January 1, 1989
Summary
A case study highlights the critical need for patient advocates in nursing homes. Without proper advocacy, mentally impaired residents may be denied essential medical treatment, leading to adverse outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Geriatric Care
- Patient Advocacy
Background:
- Mentally impaired nursing home residents often lack advocates.
- This vulnerability can lead to denial of appropriate medical treatment for acute illnesses.
- A case study illustrates a fatal outcome due to lack of advocacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the critical role of advocates for mentally impaired, acutely ill nursing home residents.
- To explore the selection, qualities, responsibilities, and training needs of patient advocates.
- To propose improvements in advocacy systems within institutionalized care settings.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of a nursing home resident's experience.
- Exploration of existing literature and ethical considerations regarding patient advocacy.
- Discussion of legal and educational frameworks for advocates.
Main Results:
- The absence of an advocate contributed to a resident being denied necessary treatment.
- Effective advocacy requires specific qualities, selection processes, and clearly defined responsibilities.
- Self-advocacy and pre-designated advocates are crucial for resident autonomy.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant need for enhanced advocacy systems for vulnerable nursing home residents.
- Education, training, and clear legal responsibilities are essential for effective patient advocates.
- Encouraging self-advocacy and pre-selection of advocates can improve patient outcomes.