A nurse is preparing to discharge an older adult client who has moderate dementia. The client will be moving in with an adult child. The adult child appears anxious and tells the nurse, "I want my parent to live with me, but I am completely overwhelmed. I don't know how I can manage providing 24-hour care while keeping my job." Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?
- Request a consultation with the medical social worker to explore community support services and respite care options.Answer
- BDelegate the task of teaching the adult child how to perform the client's activities of daily living to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).
- CReassure the adult child by stating, "Everything will work out perfectly fine once you both get settled into a routine at home."
- DExplain to the adult child that the client's severe confusion and need for constant supervision are normal, expected parts of the aging process.
Answer
The most appropriate action is to request a consultation with the medical social worker to explore community support services and respite care options.
The medical social worker is the appropriate interdisciplinary team member to evaluate the family's psychosocial needs and connect them with essential community resources, such as respite care. This collaboration directly addresses the caregiver's anxiety and ensures a safe transition to the home environment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Collaboration with Interdisciplinary Team