Observational Skills
What's the importance of observation?
they can alert you to a possible change in residents condition
What are changes in vision that occurs with aging?
- reduced ability to focus vision, increased sensibility to glare, loss of peripheral vision
Describe changes that may occur with changes in the cardiovascular system that is a complication with aging
- heart pumps blood less efficiently
- blood flow to brain/vital organs is decreased
- Arteries lose efficiency
- changes in circulation
- bed
- bedside table
- bathroom
- Privacy curtain
- closet with drawer space
Why should NA's always Lock the beds
So residents don't fall and hurt themselves
What are 4 ways you can observe a resident?
- smell
- feel
- see
- Hear
List actions to prevent injury to the resident with impaired touch.
- protect from injury
- check for potential harmful situations
- check and change position to prevent pressure for the resident if unable to sense or move parts of their body.
Describe changes that may occur with changes in the Urinary system that is a complication with aging
- Bladder capacity is decreased
- weakened bladder muscles
- Enlargement of the prostate gland
What are some measures to keep resident's environment comfortable?
- provide ventilation/air condition according to residents preferences
- Adjust lights to residents preferences
- Pay attention to the resident and not neglect their social needs
What is the first step of bed Making
HAND WASHING
How to identify observations made during resident care?
compare to previous days observations of a resident.
List warning signs of hearing impairment.
- speaks louder than necessary
- Does not react to sound
- may seem confused or withdrawn
- Asks for words to be repeated
Describe changes that may occur with changes in the respiratory system that is a complication with aging
- lung capacity is decreased
- shortness of breath
- airway size decreases
- chocking, fatigue, and infections are caused
What are some ways to maintain a safe and clean unit?
- daily maintenance
- the bed should always be locked
- supplies should be cleaned after use
Guidelines for bed Making
- Never shake linens
- Never put dirty linens on floor or with clean linens
- Lock bed
- Keep bottom of the linens tucked in and wrinkle free, allowing toe room
How does one report and record observations
changes in the residents condition should be reported to the charge nurse.
What diseases may cause visual impairment
- Cataracts, glaucoma, blood vessel changes, stroke, Macular degeneration
Describe changes that may occur with changes in the Nervous system that is a complication with aging
- Tasks involving speed, balance, and coordination take longer
- Brain cells are lost
- Decreased sensitivity of nerve receptors
- more accidents and injuries are prone
What potential dangers should a NA look for when entering a residents area?
- spills on the floor
- items on the floor
- frayed electrical cords
- extension cords being in the way
Types of bed making
- Unoccupied
- Occupied
- Open bed
What should the NA do if there are any acute changes in a resident's condition?
The NA should remain with the resident until the nurse arrives.
Describe the changes of aging that affect the musculoskeletal system.
- The bones become more brittle and may lead to fractures of the spine, hip, and wrist.
- Inflammation of the joints can affect all parts of the body
Describe changes that may occur with changes in the Endocrine system that is a complication with aging
- Dehydration
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Aging appears to reduce effectiveness of sweating and cooling of the body
- type 2 diabetes mellitus
to involve the resident
make them feel like they aren't an object
protect their resident rights
What is the last step of bed making
HAND WASHING