Implement and Monitor Nursing Care-Samples for Students

Questions: 1.His wife (Mrs Lusk) visits daily. In 200 words, what can you tell her about the PRN medication that Philip has been prescribed, and how she can effectively communicate with him? 2.Describe the classification of this Medication and the possible side effects of this medication. Also describe how you can administer this to him. Answers: 1.PRN medications are given only as and when required. The PRN or Pro re nato medication, prescribed for Philip is a mild dose of Risperidone (0.5 mg). This medication is given to control the agitation symptoms that Philip seems to experience sometimes, when he finds it difficult to respond to the fellow residents. The PRN medications, are given to the patient only under conditions as specified by the written instructions (Davy, 2012). Risperidone is being prescribed and given to Philip (whenever it is necessary) since he cannot communicate well the symptoms such as pain or anxiety that he is facing (since he cannot communicate well) and also to ensure his agitation is controlled. As for communicating with Philip, it is essential to understand that people with dementia find too hard to communicate normally. Hence, speaking slowly, and distinctly will allow them to comprehend what is being communicated. Also, keeping your body relaxed, to ensure no stress or pressure is showing will also keep Philip happy, and well enough to respond. It is essential to make eye contact while speaking, and to wait patiently for Philip to respond to your question. It might take a while for Philip to answer or he may not be able to answer coherently (Alzheimer's Society, 2016). However, do not pressurize him to talk, if he is not willing to communicate. Rephrase questions, to make it simple, or use other means of communication, if they do not understand your way of questioning. 2.Risperidone is an antipsychotic drug, which interferes with the communication system present between the nerves (neurotransmitters), and thereby calming the psychotic effect (Ogbru, 2015). Risperidone is used in the treatment of bipolar depression, schizophrenia, and also in dementia. The use of Risperidone for dementia is done to treat the behavioural disturbances such as aggression, as seen in the case of Philip. Although the use of antipsychotic medications is a second line of treatment in the case of dementia, it is used here only as a PRN to control the adverse reactions encountered in Philip (Alzheimer's Australia, 2006). Philip might encounter one of these symptoms (side-effects), when administered with Risperidone. Insomnia Dizziness Hyperactivity Headache Fatigue and drowsiness Fever Not everyone faces all symptoms, and some may not encounter any of the above mentioned side effects at all. However, it is advisable to check the allergic symptoms before prescribing. Risperidone comes both as tablets and liquid, to be administered orally. Since Philip might require it as a PRN, and only in case of over-agitation, it can be done as tablets or as a liquid, with the use of measurable syringe. It can be taken with or without food. However, the liquid medicine should not be mixed with anything else, such as a soft drink or beverages such as tea ("Risperdal: Uses, Dosage Side Effects", n.d.). References Alzheimer's Australia (2006). Risperidone for treatment of behavioural symptoms in dementia. Retrieved from https://www.fightdementia.org.au/files/helpsheets/Helpsheet-DementiaQandA05-Risperidone_english.pdf Alzheimer's Society (2016). Communicating and language. Retrieved from www.alzheimers.org.uk/info/20064/symptoms/90/communicating_and_language. Davy, J. (2012). As-Needed medication in dementia care. Retrieved from https://www.investigage.com/2012/03/07/as-needed-medication-in-dementia-care/ NHS, U.K. (2017). Communicating with people with dementia - Dementia guide. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/dementia-guide/Pages/dementia-and-communication.aspx Ogbru, P. O. (2015). Risperidone, Risperdal; Risperdal Consta: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing. Retrieved from https://www.medicinenet.com/risperidone/article.htm Risperdal: Uses, Dosage Side Effects (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/risperdal.html