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Nursing care in Alzheimer's disease
1University Center on Aging and Health, Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Cleveland, Ohio.
Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Caring for Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients significantly impacts nursing practice. Nurses identify patient needs and develop interventions to improve quality of life for individuals with dementia.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nursing Science
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) presents unique challenges in patient care.
- The progressive nature of AD leads to significant functional impairments.
- Nursing practice is substantially affected by the demands of AD patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD) on nursing practice.
- To emphasize the role of nurses in identifying and addressing the specific care needs of dementia patients.
- To underscore the importance of developing targeted nursing interventions for maintaining patient quality of life.
Main Methods:
- This study synthesizes current understanding of nursing care for Alzheimer's disease patients.
- It reviews the challenges and considerations in managing dementia care within clinical settings.
- Focus is placed on the identification of patient needs and the development of nursing interventions.
Main Results:
- Alzheimer's disease care significantly influences nursing practice and requires specialized knowledge.
- Nurses play a crucial role in assessing the evolving needs of dementia patients.
- Effective nursing interventions are vital for preserving the quality of life in individuals with AD.
Conclusions:
- Alzheimer's disease poses a significant challenge to clinical nursing and nursing research.
- Nurses are central to providing specialized care and improving outcomes for dementia patients.
- Further research is needed to optimize nursing interventions for Alzheimer's disease.
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