Reshna Thapa DNP, APRN, FNP-C, Joy Elwell DNP, APRN, Savitha Chandramohan DNP, APRN, Carol Jin DNP, APRN
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction
Dementia, a terminal illness, deteriorates the physical and mental health as it advances. Discussing goals of care (GOC) is important in these patients but there is no standard way to identify these patients.
Purpose
Identify patients that can be referred for GOC discussion based on their quality of life (QOL) by utilizing dementia quality of life (DEMQOL) or DEMQOL carer tools.
Methods
The study was conducted in a nursing home in long-term care patients diagnosed with dementia. Patients who scored less than 90 in assessment tools were referred for GOC discussion.
Results
20 patients and family participated in the study. Unit A had total of 62.5% referral rate, unit B had 66.7%, and unit C had 66.7%. Total referrals showed increased number of patients that were referred for goals of care discussion.
Conclusion
Utilization of QOL assessment tools is feasible in nursing home. DEMQOL/DEMQOL carer, an assessment tool helped identify patients for GOC discussion.
期刊介绍:
Geriatric Nursing is a comprehensive source for clinical information and management advice relating to the care of older adults. The journal''s peer-reviewed articles report the latest developments in the management of acute and chronic disorders and provide practical advice on care of older adults across the long term continuum. Geriatric Nursing addresses current issues related to drugs, advance directives, staff development and management, legal issues, client and caregiver education, infection control, and other topics. The journal is written specifically for nurses and nurse practitioners who work with older adults in any care setting.