A 75-year-old patient of Hispanic descent arrives in an immigrant healthcare clinic with fever, chills, a sore throat, and a nonproductive cough. She speaks some English. The patient appears very ill, with dry mucous membranes, dark circles under the eyes, and pale skin. The patient appears anxious and is reluctant to make eye contact or speak. The health history reveals that the patient lives with extended family in a home setting, including infants and elderly. All of the family members are undocumented residents of the United States. Further workup reveals the patient has influenza.
Please post your responses to the following questions in Unit 7 Discussion Board.
Case Questions
- What method should be used to ensure full communication with the patient?
- Because the patient is an undocumented resident of the United States, what factors should you consider in the care and treatment of the patient?
- Because influenza vaccination has been recommended, how will you suggest the family access influenza vaccinations?
- What test was likely used to confirm the diagnosis of influenza?
- What differential diagnoses need to be ruled out for the patient?
- What self-care management should be explained to the patient?
- The patient should report the development of what symptoms to the practitioner?
Full Answer Section
If a language interpreter is not available, it is still important to try to communicate with the patient as best as possible. This may involve speaking slowly and clearly, using simple language, and avoiding medical jargon. It is also important to be patient and understanding, as the patient may be anxious or uncomfortable.
Because the patient is an undocumented resident of the United States, what factors should you consider in the care and treatment of the patient?
When caring for an undocumented patient, it is important to be aware of the patient's legal status. This is because there are some laws that restrict the care that can be provided to undocumented patients. For example, undocumented patients may not be able to get certain types of insurance or government benefits.
It is also important to be sensitive to the patient's fear of deportation. This fear may make the patient reluctant to seek medical care, even when they are sick. It is important to reassure the patient that they will not be deported for seeking medical care.
Because influenza vaccination has been recommended, how will you suggest the family access influenza vaccinations?
There are a few ways to suggest the family access influenza vaccinations. One way is to provide them with information about free or low-cost vaccination clinics in the area. You can also contact your local health department for more information.
Another way to suggest the family access influenza vaccinations is to talk to them about the importance of getting vaccinated. Explain that influenza can be a serious illness, especially for older adults and people with underlying health conditions. Emphasize that getting vaccinated is the best way to protect themselves and their family from influenza.
You can also offer to help the family find a vaccination clinic or to schedule an appointment for them. It is important to be patient and understanding, as the family may have concerns about getting vaccinated. Reassure them that you are there to help and that you will do everything you can to make the process as easy as possible.