Cognitively impaired elder assessment
Cognitively impaired elder assessment. The registered nurse reports that when the nurse aids attempts to get him out of bed, he actively resists and strikes out. He also screams when being showered, especially when his lower extremities are washed, and when being dressed. He has been moved to a private room in the facility due to his behavioral changes disturbing his roommate. The registered nurse reports that he has a large ulcer on the medial aspect of his left foot as well as a small ulcer on the malleolus. His right heel is reddened and soft to the touch. The patient’s daughter is present at the meeting and asks the registered nurse whether she thinks her father is in pain. The registered nurse responds that she attempted to administer the pain scale but that he was not able to respond.
- Do you think this resident is in pain? What signs is he exhibiting that make you draw that conclusion?
- What is the best way of assessing pain in a cognitively impaired elder?
- What interventions can be instituted to improve his comfort?
