Patients with mental disorders have many treatment options. No single treatment works for everyone, so patients work with their doctors to find the best combination. Psychotherapy is important to help patients learn about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Medication is not a cure by itself, but when paired with therapy, it can be very effective at managing symptoms. Support groups allow people with similar disorders help each other.
Caregiving is demanding, both physically and mentally. Respite care gives family and caregivers a chance to temporarily rest while the patient is cared for in a facility. Respite care can be during the day, for a weekend, or for a few days. It can also take place in the patient's home.
Each human being has five parts that make up the entire person: 1. Social: relationships, friendships, and community; 2. Physical: health, illness, hygiene, fitness, diet, disability, and disease; 3. Emotional: awareness of feelings and how they impact behavior; 4. Cognitive: thinking and learning; and 5. Spiritual: personal beliefs about religion and ethics.
No matter a client's age or mental status, sadness can occur. While crying can make some people uncomfortable, the nurse aide is in the best position to ask the client about their feelings and to offer comfort. Do not leave the client alone. Do not try to distract the client. Simply sit with the client and ask gentle questions. Listen and do not offer solutions. During sadness, people seek comfort and a kind presence. They may not be asking for a solution, but simply someone to listen. If you can help, do so.
When Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross identified the five stages of grief and dying, she stated that anger is the only stage that everyone goes through. Residents can show anger in different ways. They can be angry with themselves, or with with others, especially those close to them or those who try to help them. If a resident becomes angry, undersand why. Stay detached and non-judgemental when experiencing the anger of someone who is very upset.
Humans can remain sexual throughout their lives. If residents are mentally competent, they can decide to seek intimacy. Residents have a right to express their sexuality as long as it is not public and does not harm the resident or others. Assure privacy for residents and avoid commenting to co-workers. Always treat residents with respect and dignity.
Depression has several symptoms that signal the need for treatment. Sleep problems can be a significant sign, either too much or too little. Other symptoms include feeling sad or hopeless, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, irritability, loss of interest in favorite activities, weight gain or loss, or even thoughts of suicide.
Delusions are false beliefs that involve a misinterpretation of experiences. A person may believe that they are being followed, tricked, or spied on. They may also be convinced that songs or books contain special information meant for them. Attempts to show the person that their belief is wrong or irrational are not accepted by the person.
The five stages of grief and dying are a model that explain the emotional response to death. Both the client and the client's loved ones can experience these emotions. The stages are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Depression serves as the beginning of the client's understanding that they are going to die. It is also called "preparatory grieving" as the client feels sadness, fear, and uncertainty about what is ahead.
Every client has different religious needs. When a client requests to speak with their rabbi, pastor, imam, or other leader, the nurse aide should help arrange the visit. Notify the nurse or social worker who can contact the clergy. Spiritual care can be as important as physical care.
Sexuality is expressed in many ways besides having sex. People are molded by their cultural and religious beliefs, as well as how they see themselves. Sexuality develops through all relationships. It includes how we look, dress, walk, smile, laugh, and cry. Sexuality continues to develop throughout our entire lives.
The five stages of grief and dying are a model that explain the emotional response to death. Both the client and the client's loved ones can experience these emotions. The stages are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. The stages are not linear; most people move back and forth. Acceptance is the final stage, when the client reflects on their life and understands that it is ending. They feel at peace and want to share their time with loved ones.
When a client is agitated or frustrated, do not elevate the situation by raising your voice, arguing with, or ignoring the client. Speak in a calm and reassuring voice, and try to find out what is causing the client's behavior. Listen to their frustration. Offer a favorite object or go for a walk. Look to see if there is something in the environment that triggers the agitation: loud noises, open spaces, unfamiliar people, fatigue, hunger, or need to use the toilet. Over time, you may recognize warning signs of agitation and be able to intervene quickly.
Loss from independence or a life change triggers the same grief experience as a death. In rehabilitation, a patient faces rebuilding their life after an injury or illness. Progress can be slow and frustrating. Provide support and compassion for the patient, but use honesty when offering resassurance. Do not give false hope or promises.
If you are hit by a resident while giving care, notify the nurse. You may be asked to complete an Incident Report. If you are injured, get treatment. Always remove yourself from harm by stepping out of the way of the resident's reach. Remain calm and explain that hitting is not acceptable.
Loss of a spouse is considered the most stressful event in a person's life. Even when the death is anticipated, the sense of loss can be overwhelming. The remaining spouse must cope and rebuild a life without their partner. Grief can be profound, so the person needs time and support. There is no timeline for recovery or correct way to grieve; each person is different.
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CNA Mental Health And Social Services Needs #3
