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Elderly Care: Addressing Health Changes

Mrs. Elena Cruz, an 84-year-old resident with a history of hypertension, osteoarthritis, and mild dementia, has shown increased forgetfulness, confusion, and reluctance to eat or participate in activities. She appears slightly dehydrated and has difficulty sleeping, with vital signs indicating mild fever and elevated blood pressure. The case study prompts critical thinking about immediate nursing concerns, interventions, patient involvement in care, potential underlying issues, and communication with the healthcare team.

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18 views1 page

Elderly Care: Addressing Health Changes

Mrs. Elena Cruz, an 84-year-old resident with a history of hypertension, osteoarthritis, and mild dementia, has shown increased forgetfulness, confusion, and reluctance to eat or participate in activities. She appears slightly dehydrated and has difficulty sleeping, with vital signs indicating mild fever and elevated blood pressure. The case study prompts critical thinking about immediate nursing concerns, interventions, patient involvement in care, potential underlying issues, and communication with the healthcare team.

Uploaded by

ryanjayolayvar21
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Case Study 1

Scenario:
Mrs. Elena Cruz, an 84-year-old resident of a home for the aged, has recently been admitted.
She has a history of hypertension, osteoarthritis, and mild dementia. Mrs. Cruz is generally
independent with her daily activities but occasionally requires reminders about her medication
schedule.

Over the past week, staff have observed changes in her behavior, including increased
forgetfulness, confusion about time and place, and reluctance to participate in activities she
previously enjoyed. Additionally, she has been complaining of mild pain in her knees and
occasionally refuses to eat meals, stating she is “not hungry.”

During your morning assessment, you notice the following:

 Mrs. Cruz appears slightly dehydrated, with dry lips and a flushed face.
 She reports difficulty sleeping over the past few nights.
 Her vital signs are as follows: BP 145/90 mmHg, HR 88 bpm, Temp 37.8°C (100.0°F),
RR 20/min.

Critical Thinking Questions

1. What immediate concerns should the nurse address based on Mrs. Cruz’s presentation?
2. What additional questions would you ask Mrs. Cruz to gather more information about her
recent changes in behavior?
3. Identify three priority nursing interventions for Mrs. Cruz at this time and justify your
choices.
4. 4.How would you involve Mrs. Cruz in her care to address her reluctance to eat and
participate in activities?
5. Considering Mrs. Cruz’s medical history and symptoms, what potential underlying issues
could explain her recent confusion and behavioral changes?
6. What diagnostic tests or evaluations might you anticipate the physician ordering to
investigate her condition?

7. How would you communicate your concerns about Mrs. Cruz’s condition to the
healthcare team?
8. What information would you include in your report to ensure continuity of care?
9. Mrs. Cruz occasionally refuses to take her prescribed medication. How would you
handle this situation while respecting her autonomy?
10. How would you ensure her dignity and preferences are respected during her care?

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