Weekly Objectives 3 and 4 are addressed in this discussion.
The number of patients over 65 years old continues to grow. Many of the ailments afflicting older adults are responsive to health promotion and prevention activities. A major focus of health promotion is to minimize the loss of independence associated with functional decline and illness. Nurses are instrumental in promoting the health of the elderly. The Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing has developed a core set of Hospital Nursing Competencies expected of nurses that care for older adults. Competencies cover communication, pain, skin integrity, functional status, restraints, elder abuse, and discharge teaching. The Hartford Institute Try This Series provides free assessment tools for best practices of care for older adults, many which you may be using on a daily basis.
Instructions
After visiting the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing and reviewing the TryThis Series, discuss the following with your peers.
- How does your healthcare facility incorporate the Hartford Nursing Competencies?
- Which Try This tool in the General Assessment Series is incorporated into the electronic health record?
- What could you do to improve the care of elderly patients at your healthcare facility or in the community?