Case Study: Mrs. Jones's Patient

Mrs Jones’s Doctor is concerned that Mrs Jones is not eating properly and is losing too much weight. The nurse would firstly need to conduct a nutritional assessment to obtain information such as measurement of muscle mass, body fat, height, weight and body mass index (Culross, 2008). The nurse may also refer Mrs Jones for laboratory testing for micronutrient deficiencies (Culross, 2008). The nurse should obtain subjective data from Mrs Jones to identify her food habits, meal patterns and beliefs, if she uses any supplements and if any of her medical problems or other factors influence her nutrition (Culross, 2008; Nestlé Nutrition Institute, n.d.). The nutritional assessment and patient interview are essential in determining nutritional status …show more content…
As people get older, Peristalsis significantly decreases, which can potentially cause constipation (Culross, 2008). Constipation also arises due to insufficient fruit, vegetable and fluid intake, therefore, the nurse should advise Mrs Jones to Increase her fluid consumption and increase her fibre intake to improve peristalsis, hydration and decrease constipation (Leung, Riutta, Kotecha & Rosser, 2011). Dehydration not only increases the development of constipation, it can also cause dizziness (Bunn & Hooper, 2015). Improving Mrs Jones’s fluid intake and electrolyte balance, may potentially alleviate the dizziness (Bunn & Hooper, …show more content…
With the help from Mrs Jones’s Doctor, a medication review could be carried out. Mrs Jones is currently taking Hydroxychloroquine for her rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine is known to cause gastrointestinal problems and can result in decreased appetite (American College of Rheumatology, 2015). Mrs Jones is also taking thyroxine for her hypothyroidism. If too much of this drug is taken, it can result in severe weight loss (NPS MedicineWise, 2016; Wells & Dumbrell,