10.1: Introduction to Provide Care for Clients Experiencing Acute and Chronic Conditions

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Learning Objectives

Care for clients with developmental disabilities
Care for clients with long-term, disabling conditions, including dementia
Manage stressful situations involving clients with dementia
Provide food and fluid intake monitoring and interventions for clients with dementia
Manage behavioral challenges of clients with dementia
Demonstrate sensitivity to emotional needs, social diversity, and mental health of clients
Respond to psychosocial needs of clients

Many nursing assistants work in long-term care settings where residents live for assistance with chronic medical conditions. Chronic health conditions are health issues lasting more than six months and often require specialized interventions to maintain the individual’s highest possible level of health and functioning. Acute health conditions in long-term care settings are typically related to the resident’s rehabilitation process, an infection, or an injury.

Nursing assistants also work in hospital settings where patients with acute health conditions can experience rapid changes in their condition. These changes must be promptly communicated to the nurse so they can be addressed quickly. In this chapter you will learn how to meet the needs of residents with chronic conditions related to developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, and dementia. You will also be introduced to providing care for patients with acute conditions that require additional safety or behavioral interventions.