Pain in the elderly patient may be more difficult to assess because of the patient’s cognitive and physical impairments. Traditional approaches to pain management may need to be modified because of a sometimes-elusive diagnosis, altered patient physiology, and the risk of more prominent side effects. Show
The goals of therapy are to decrease pain while increasing function and enhancing quality of life. Because chronic non-cancer pain can be reduced but not eliminated, ongoing pain reporting is common in patients with dementia. Chronic Pain in the Elderly Population
Evaluation of the Elderly Patient
Goals of Treatment
Non-Pharmaceutical Approach
Pharmaceutical ApproachNon-opioids Non-opioids are preferred over opioids. Used primarily for nociceptive pain (post-op pain, mechanical low back pain, injuries/trauma, arthritis). Involve a pharmacist for help in reviewing side effects and concomitant medications (including supplements) for drug-drug/supplement interactions.
Opioids – General Considerations
Pain Treatment in Patients with Dementia
What action should the nurse implement to prevent clogging of the NG tube after medication administration quizlet?After the last medication has been given, flush the tube with 30 ml of water. Flushing prevents blocking of the tube.
What are three priority considerations for sterile dressing?Gather necessary equipment. Dressing supplies must be for single patient use only. Use the smallest size of dressing for the wound. Take only the dressing supplies needed for the dressing change to the bedside.
What action should the nurse implement to prevent clogging of the NG tube after medication?Clogging can occur with any size tube but is more likely with smaller-bore tubes. Regular flushing with water can help prevent clogging not caused by medications. Flush the tube every 4 hours with 30 mL of water during continuous feeding, or before and after each intermittent bolus feeding.
Which action should the nurse take to maintain sterility when performing a dressing change quizlet?CORRECT: The priority goal in setting up a sterile field is to maintain sterility and thus reduce the risk to the client's safety. Unless the nurse pulls the top flap (the one furthest from her body) away from her body first, she risks touching part of the inner surface of the wrap and thus contaminating it.
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