Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Health Education and Promotion Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Health Education and Promotion related questions and content

A gerontologic nurse has observed that patients often fail to adhere to a therapeutic regimen. What strategy should the nurse adopt to best assist an older adult in adhering to a therapeutic regimen involving wound care?

  • A. Demonstrate a dressing change and allow the patient to practice.
  • B. Provide a detailed pamphlet on a dressing change.
  • C. Verbally instruct the patient how to change a dressing and check for comprehension.
  • D. Delegate the dressing change to a trusted family member.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse must consider that older adults may have deficits in the ability to draw inferences, apply information, or understand major teaching points. Demonstration and practice are essential in meeting their learning needs. The other options are incorrect because the elderly may have problems reading and/or understanding a written pamphlet or verbal instructions. Having a family member change the dressing when the patient is capable of doing it impedes self-care and independence.