ABSTRACT
Care of patients with leg ulcers is challenging as well as rewarding. Recent advances in scientific knowledge about healing should be incorporated in the nursing care of leg ulcer patients. This article provides an update on the state of the science in the care of leg ulcers in geriatric patients, and focuses on assessment and local care of such ulcers. Ulcer assessment provides the basis for selecting therapies to maximize healing. Wound cleansing and appropriate dressings are essential to good patient outcomes. Furthermore, healing is enhanced when these interventions are combined with strategies that maximize oxygen to the ulcer, promote appropriate levels of activity, optimize perfusion through physiological positioning, and reduce mechanical shear through selection of proper footwear. Care of patients with leg ulcers provides the nurse an opportunity to apply pathophysiology, utilize scientific data, and function as an integral player on the wound care team.
Subject(s)
Leg Ulcer/nursing , Aged , Geriatric Nursing , Humans , Leg Ulcer/pathology , Nursing Assessment , Patient Care TeamABSTRACT
The recovery period following hospitalization for a CHD event is an ideal time to assess a patient for risk factors and to offer intervention. Frequently, the nurse is the single source of such care and has opportunity to educate the patient and offer suggestions for life-style modifications that can reduce the recurrence of CHD events. This article describes modifiable risk factors and methods of assessment, cites sources for management and general health screening method, that can provide a comprehensive assessment of health risks. Gender or ethnic-specific issues, have been highlighted. A very brief mention of age-specific risk factors is included.
Subject(s)
Coronary Disease/nursing , Life Style , Myocardial Infarction/nursing , Nursing Assessment , Patient Discharge , Patient Education as Topic , Coronary Disease/prevention & control , Humans , Myocardial Infarction/prevention & control , Recurrence , Risk AssessmentABSTRACT
This survey research conducted during a 3-year period was designed to describe the scope of practice and effectiveness of the geriatric nurse practitioner (GNP) in providing health care to older adults in a variety of settings. The University of California, San Francisco, in collaboration with three other GNP programs surveyed graduates (n = 123). Also surveyed were administrators, directors of nursing, and the primary medical consultant where the GNPs were employed. A high degree of agreement among the professional groups was found. Some comparisons are made with the results of previous studies.
Subject(s)
Geriatric Nursing/standards , Nurse Practitioners/standards , Professional Practice/standards , Arizona , California , Geriatric Nursing/methods , Humans , Interprofessional Relations , Job Description , Nurse Practitioners/methods , Nursing Evaluation Research , WashingtonABSTRACT
The first report of the National Task Force on Gerontology and Geriatric Care Education, excerpted herein, raises many more questions than it answers. Through its broad-brush articulation of the health care needs of older people, the report sets the environment for gauging the impact of these needs on allied health practice. Responses to a number of the implications for health care needs are now underway, yet much remains undone. In the coming year the task force will develop an action plan that addresses directly the many implications for allied health.
