Gerontology Nursing Project : Geriatric Syndromes

Gerontology Nursing Project : Geriatric Syndromes

Geriatric syndrome refers to identification of certain clinical conditions in older persons that cannot be included in the categorization of diseases. Currently, geriatrics specialists are aware of six health problems, such as “delirium, falls, frailty, dizziness, syncope and urinary incontinence” (Inouye et al. 780). The selected three health problems listed under geriatric syndromes, namely falls, dizziness, and delirium, can be addressed by nursing staff through effective approaches.Gerontology Nursing Project : Geriatric Syndromes

Falls can be defined as unplanned descent to the floor which leads to unintentional injuries because of inability to maintain the position of the body (Allain et al. 105).  Nurses should observe an elderly individual for this health problem in order to prevent injuries. The ways that can be used to assist the patient in preventive illness related to falls include using chairs for moving, asking for help by phone, and using power wheelchair. Moreover, it is possible to use special footwear that will prevent the occurrence of  falls through improved balancing of human body.

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Besides, delirium can be defined as “an acute decline in attention and global cognitive functioning” (Inouye et al. 780). Nurses should observe an elderly patient using new technologies, such as video cameras or video monitoring systems. The ways that can be useful in preventing the negative effects of this health problem are using medication, aromatherapy and pet therapy. In addition, there is an alternative of using special computer devices that will help the elderly to make serious decisions.

Finally, dizziness is a common health problem among the elderly. It can be defined as spinning, light-headedness or a loss of balance (Iwasaki & Yamasoba 38). Nurses should observe the elderly on a regular basis through TV control to prevent the negative consequences of this health problem using medication, mats or pillows, call bells or phones within reach. Furthermore, robots can be used to prevent the elderly from negative consequences of dizziness.Gerontology Nursing Project : Geriatric Syndromes

Conclusion

Thus, it is necessary to conclude that three health problems listed under geriatric syndromes, including falls, dizziness and delirium, should be addressed by nurses in the proper way. These health problems have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life, independence, and overall health status. The use of new technologies combined with medication and other methods can help to prevent the elderly from negative outcomes.

Works Cited

Allain, T. J., Mwambelo, M., Mdolo, T. &Mfune, P. (2014). “Falls and other geriatric syndromes in Blantyre, Malawi: a community survey of older adults,” Malawi Med J., 26.4. (2014): 105–108.

Inouye, S. K., Studenski, S., Tinetti, M. E., Kuchel, G. A. (2010). “Geriatric Syndromes: Clinical, Research and Policy Implications of a Core Geriatric Concept,” Journal of American Geriatric Society, 55.5 (2007): 780-791.

Iwasaki, S. & Yamasoba, T. (2015). “Dizziness and Imbalance in the Elderly: Age-related Decline in the Vestibular System,” Ageing and Disease, 6.1 (2015): 38–47.Gerontology Nursing Project : Geriatric Syndromes

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