This article discusses the Influence of Patient Education on Older Patient – Issues and Interview
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Sample Question – Influence of Patient Education on Older Patient
Write a 500-750-word essay on the influence patient education has in health care using the experiences of a patient. Interview a friend or family member about that person’s experiences with the health care system. You may develop your own list of questions.
Suggested interview questions:
- Did a patient education representative give you instructions on how to care for yourself after your illness or operation?
- Did a health care professional, pharmacist, nurse, doctor, or elder counselor advise you on your medication, diet, or exercise?
- Who assisted you at home after your illness or operation?
- Do you know of any assistance services, i.e., food, transportation, medication, that would help you stay in your home as you get older?
Sample Answer – Influence of Patient Education on Older Patient
Healthcare professionals, including nurses use patient education as an approach of promoting and improving health among individual patients and the community as a whole. As a health promotion tool, patient education empowers individual clients with skills and knowledge, which enable them to take control of their health, and also enhance their wellbeing. Experiential research studies indicate that patient education also enhances patient self-confidence and capacity for self-care (Cramer, 2009).
To enhance the effectiveness of patient education in imparting the intended knowledge, it is crucial for the healthcare professional to apply effective communication skills with consideration to individual needs of the patient. Effective communication also enhances patient understanding and promotes compliance to the prescribed medical intervention (Kreofsky, 2013). This paper explores the influence of patient education on healthcare using experiences of an elderly person. To deduce the relevant information about the topic, I interviewed Mr. K, a 69 year old male on his experiences in the healthcare system particularly in regard to patient education.
Mr. K is an African American, whose physical appearance demonstrates body weight problems, and a considerable physical impairment, especially while walking. In his recent medical checkup he was found to be obese and was diagnosed with hypertension. Additionally, he was found to have high lipid and blood sugar levels.
The first question directed to Mr. K inquired whether the healthcare provider offered him instructions on how to take care of is health in the outpatient setting. The patient affirmed he was provided with instructions, concerning medication schedules and importance of adhering to the treatment provided. In particular, the patient was provided with dosage instructions, which were clearly indicated on the medication package. In his opinion, the instructions were clear, and he found them easy to follow and remember because they were given both verbally and in writing.
The second question inquired if he found the patient education sensitive to his culture, especially his religious background. In his response, Mr. K expressed his disappointment at the healthcare professionals’ lack of awareness concerning his Islamic faith, particularly in regard to medication schedules. In this case, the medication schedule provided by the healthcare professional conflicted with his prayer plan. On informing the attending clinician about the issue, the care provider seemed not to appreciate the importance of the patient’s faith. However, the patient was happy that eventually, they negotiated on an acceptable medication schedule.
The third question asked whether the healthcare professional provided advisory services on dieting and exercises. The patient confirmed that he was advised to avoid and minimize the intake of salt, fats and sugar in his meals. Additionally, he was advised to consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily and avoid smoking. Regarding exercising, the patient confirmed that he was advised to take moderate walks for at least thirty minutes daily. Overall, the patient was satisfied with the advice provided, and he was already implementing the instructions at home.
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The next question inquired whether the patient received support from family members, after the illness. He confirmed that his wife was his main support system, and played a major role in encouraging him to adhere to the instructions and advice provided by the healthcare professional. Additionally, his wife was instrumental in his quest to adopt a healthy lifestyle by preparing health diet and encouraging him to undertake physical exercises. He asserted that his wife has been accompanying him to clinical visits, which provided him with the much needed strength to help him address the health challenges with confidence and courage.
The final question was about his knowledge about the available community and social support services within his locality. In his response, he affirmed that he was connected by the community nurse with a local support group of elderly people living with diabetes and hypertension. Additionally he was informed about shopping facilities within his environs that supplied healthy and fresh farm products, including fruits and vegetables. He asserted that his awareness about the available support services has enhanced his health to a great extent by providing him with crucial moral and social support, which is critical to his physical and mental wellbeing.
Patient education is crucial for older adults to empower them with ability to take care of their health needs. To enhance the understanding of the patient, it is important for the healthcare professional to communicate effectively and involve the client and the family members. As a patient centered approach, the health care professional should design the education in a manner that it addresses the individual health needs of the client, including religious and cultural backgrounds.
References
Cramer, J.A.(2009). Enhancing patient compliance in the elderly. Role of packaging aids and monitoring. Drugs Aging, 12:7–15
Kreofsky, L.(2013). Engaging staff to engage patients: patient engagement is essential for meaningful use, and studies show it is becoming more definitively linked to consumer satisfaction. Health Management and Technology, 34(2):12–13.