Types of elder abuse that were identified by the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA).

1. Neglect: Failure to provide for an elder's basic needs, including food, water, shelter, hygiene, or medical care.
2. Abandonment: Desertion of an elder by a caregiver who has a legal or moral responsibility for their care.
3. Self-Neglect: An elder's inability or unwillingness to meet their own basic needs.

Ethical Dilemmas: Euthanasia, Suicide, and Assisted Suicide

These issues raise complex ethical dilemmas:

• Euthanasia: The act of deliberately ending a life to relieve suffering.
  • Ethical Considerations: Balancing patient autonomy (right to die) with the sanctity of life.
• Suicide: The act of intentionally ending one's own life.
  • Ethical Considerations: Balancing patient autonomy with the duty to protect life and offering support to prevent suicide.
• Assisted Suicide: Providing the means or opportunity for someone to commit suicide.
  • Ethical Considerations: Similar to euthanasia, balancing patient autonomy with the potential for abuse or coercion.

Approach:

• Respect for Autonomy: Respect the patient's right to make informed decisions about their care, even if it conflicts with personal beliefs.
• Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with the patient and their family, exploring all options and the implications of each choice.
• Ethical Guidelines: Follow established ethical guidelines and institutional policies when navigating these complex situations.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, ethicists, and spiritual advisors to provide holistic support for the patient and family.

Nurse's Role in Health Promotion & Disease Prevention in Older Adults

Nurses play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease in older adults. Here's an example:

Example:

During a routine checkup, a nurse identifies an older adult at risk for falls due to medication side effects and weak leg muscles. The nurse:

• Educates the patient about fall prevention strategies (e.g., wearing proper footwear, using assistive devices).
• Collaborates with the doctor to adjust medications or manage side effects.
• Refers the patient to physical therapy to improve muscle strength and balance.

This proactive approach promotes the patient's well-being and reduces the risk of falls and associated injuries.

Screening and Preventive Procedures for Older Adults

1. Fall Risk Assessment: Evaluates factors that increase the risk of falls, allowing for preventive measures.

2. Cognitive Screening: Identifies potential cognitive decline that could impact daily living and safety.

3. Medication Review: Ensures medications are appropriate, effective, and don't interact negatively.

End-of-Life Documents: Nurse's Role and Education

Nurses play a vital role in educating older adults about end-of-life documents:

1. Living Will: A legal document specifying medical treatment preferences in case of incapacitation. Nurses explain treatment options and facilitate discussions.

2. Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: Designates someone to make healthcare decisions if the patient is unable to. Nurses educate patients about choosing a trusted decision-maker.

3. Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A physician's order to withhold CPR in case of cardiac arrest. Nurses explain the implications and ensure informed consent.

By educating older adults about these documents and facilitating informed decision-making, nurses help ensure their patients' wishes are respected during end-of-life care.