Forensic Nursing
Handling elderly patients diagnosed with mental health issues is very complicated, especially when the primary caregivers lack professional medical background. Consequentially, there arise many issues, including maltreatment and physical injuries. However, when the caregivers have experience in the ways to deal with the medical needs of the patients, there are limited chances of maltreatment (Alvarez et al., 356). In this case, the patient’s caregiver, her daughter, and son-in-law seemingly lack adequate background knowledge on ways to deal with her condition adequately. Loss of weight, dehydration, and the bruises in her arm are signs of maltreatment. However, her daughter’s account of the situation contradicts that of the patient; therefore, the situation must be handled impartially to ensure correct assessment to allow for accurate recommendations.
I would handle the situation by first subjecting the patient to a detailed geriatric assessment that examines her functional body levels, cognitive abilities, psychological characteristics, and, most importantly, the socio-environment that she lives. Geriatric assessment is essential to ensure that a forensic nurse determines whether the reported case is a result of maltreatment (Parker et al., 153). The fact that the patient’s accounts and the caregivers are contradictory makes it very important, to begin with, the assessment. Then, I would subject the patient, the daughter, and the son-in-law to interviews on the patient condition and behavior to determine the causes of the injury. Finally, I would make recommendations on the best way to address the patient’s problem.
As aforementioned, my assessment would include a physical examination of all her body and a psychological examination that measures her cognitive functional abilities. The evaluation process should document any signs of abuse, such as bruises and dehydration(Baker et al. 347). More so, examine whether she shows any signs of suicidal behavior through a detailed mental health assessment.
To conclude, after the assessment, I would make my recommendations of whether or not there are signs of maltreatment. If present, report the matter to the department of social services for the necessary actions to protect the patient.
Works Cited
Alvarez, Ivan C., et al. “Learning Needs and Quality Care Among Family Caregivers and Elderly Patients of Guadalupe, Cebu City, Central Philippines.” European Scientific Journal, ESJ, vol. 13, no. 24, 2017, p. 356.
Baker, Philip R., et al. “Interventions for preventing elder abuse: applying findings of a new Cochrane review.” Age and Ageing, 2016.
Parker, S. G., et al. “What is Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)? An umbrella review.” Age and Ageing, vol. 47, no. 1, 2017, pp. 149-155.