You are caring for a patient with late-stage Alzheimers disease. The patients wife tells you that the patient has now become completely dependent and that she feels guilty if she takes any time for herself. What outcomes would be appropriate for the nurse to develop to assist the patients wife?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For prolonged periods, it is not uncommon for caregivers to neglect their own emotional and health needs. The caregiver must learn to distinguish obligations that she must fulfill and limit those that are not completely necessary. The caregiver can tell the patient when she leaves, but she should not expect that the patient will remember or will not become angry with her for leaving. The caregiver should not leave the patient home alone for any length of time because it may compromise the patients safety. Being thoughtful and selective with her time and energy is not synonymous with prioritizing her own health over than of the patient; it is more indicative of balance and sustainability.

You Are Caring for a Patient with Late-Stage Alzheimers Disease