Cognitive impairment and chronic mental illness are conditions that need special attention when noted. These changes can impact the older adult’s ability in performing their activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). According to Touhy and Jett (2012), cognitive changes are often overlooked and undiagnosed by healthcare providers that may lead to greater impairment and functional decline, because of missed early intervention and treatment (p.376). Health care professionals must be cognizant with these changes to detect early problem, prevent progression, and in implementing proper treatment. The Folstein Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) is an important screening tool on older adult patient with
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In addition, I will use the Hendrich II fall risk model to determine his risk for fall. Introducing myself to the patient in a calmly manner could help build a good relationship. I will address the patient by his first name or by calling Mr. B. to respect the patient’s dignity as a human being. I will make sure that the environment is quiet as much as possible so the patient will not get distracted and he can focus on the questions. The purpose of the exam will be thoroughly explained to the patient, as well as the meaning of each result. Besides from assessing the mental and cognitive status of the patient, I will also observe and document the mood, appearance, and behavior of the patient. If the patient is unable to focus and distracted, I will make sure to take breaks in between questions and I will not persist if patient has difficulty answering. Praising successes could help maintain …show more content…
Elderly patient with delirium may present with low mood, lethargy, and apathy. Delirium is reversible if early detected and treated. On the other hand, the patient with depressive symptoms may report decreased appetite, low mood and energy, and decreased motivation. Nurses and “physicians should also remember that mania sometimes manifests as an acute confusional or delirious state, particularly in elderly patients” (Gagliardi, 2008). If patient has underlying delirium and depression he will score differently in MMSE. Depression affects the patient’s ability to concentrate and think and he may not able to recall and name of items and focus on attention and calculations questions. A patient with underlying delirium may or may not answer MMSE questions appropriately. His self-awareness and exterior reality may be impaired. The patient’s ability to follow commands, recall items, and concentrate may be affected. A combination of mental illness, delirium, and cognitive impairment can impact the patient’s score in
In addition, I will use the Hendrich II fall risk model to determine his risk for fall. Introducing myself to the patient in a calmly manner could help build a good relationship. I will address the patient by his first name or by calling Mr. B. to respect the patient’s dignity as a human being. I will make sure that the environment is quiet as much as possible so the patient will not get distracted and he can focus on the questions. The purpose of the exam will be thoroughly explained to the patient, as well as the meaning of each result. Besides from assessing the mental and cognitive status of the patient, I will also observe and document the mood, appearance, and behavior of the patient. If the patient is unable to focus and distracted, I will make sure to take breaks in between questions and I will not persist if patient has difficulty answering. Praising successes could help maintain …show more content…
Elderly patient with delirium may present with low mood, lethargy, and apathy. Delirium is reversible if early detected and treated. On the other hand, the patient with depressive symptoms may report decreased appetite, low mood and energy, and decreased motivation. Nurses and “physicians should also remember that mania sometimes manifests as an acute confusional or delirious state, particularly in elderly patients” (Gagliardi, 2008). If patient has underlying delirium and depression he will score differently in MMSE. Depression affects the patient’s ability to concentrate and think and he may not able to recall and name of items and focus on attention and calculations questions. A patient with underlying delirium may or may not answer MMSE questions appropriately. His self-awareness and exterior reality may be impaired. The patient’s ability to follow commands, recall items, and concentrate may be affected. A combination of mental illness, delirium, and cognitive impairment can impact the patient’s score in