Question

Case Study Ch2 Handout 1: Case Study: Mrs. Harkness Mrs. Harkness, an 86-year-old woman, has just been placed in a long-term care facility. Her family chose this living arrangement because she has steadily declined in health and is unable to care for herself. Her history reveals an old stroke with left-sided weakness, marked hearing loss, and diabetes mellitus. Since her admission, she cries a lot and responds with only one-word answers- yes or no. 1. Describe how you would approach this resident. How would you attempt to develop trust​

Answer 1

I can provide some general guidance on how to approach Mrs. Harkness and attempt to develop trust in a long-term care facility:

Introduce yourself: When first meeting Mrs. Harkness, it's important to introduce yourself and explain your role in her care. This can help her understand who you are and what you are there to do.

Be patient: Mrs. Harkness may be feeling overwhelmed or anxious about her new living situation, and may need time to adjust. It's important to be patient and give her time to express herself at her own pace.

Use active listening: When communicating with Mrs. Harkness, it's important to use active listening techniques, such as repeating back what she says or summarizing her feelings. This can help her feel heard and understood.

Respect her autonomy: Mrs. Harkness may be feeling a loss of control in her new living situation, so it's important to respect her autonomy and involve her in decision-making about her care whenever possible.

Show empathy: Mrs. Harkness may be feeling a range of emotions, including sadness, fear, and frustration. Showing empathy and understanding can help her develop trust and feel more comfortable in her new environment.

Establish a routine: Establishing a consistent routine can help Mrs. Harkness feel more comfortable and secure in her new living situation. This can include regular meal times, activities, and visits fromfamily members.

Be consistent: Consistency in care can also help Mrs. Harkness develop trust. It's important to maintain a consistent approach to her care, including communication, medication administration, and other daily activities.

Involve family members: Inviting family members to participate in care can help Mrs. Harkness feel more comfortable and connected. This can include participating in care meetings, visiting regularly, and providing input on her care plan.

Overall, a person-centered approach that is attentive to Mrs. Harkness' needs, preferences, and emotions can help establish trust and a positive relationship between her and the care team in the long-term care facility.