If I have any concerns about the patient I will let a senior member of staff know and I will also let the patient’s carer or family members know. I will discuss the issue with them in private and explain why I am concerned. I will then seek ways to resolve this with either the senior member of staff or the family members or carer. If it cannot be resolved I will then discuss what the next best step is and may also contact the PALS team.In a situation where I am concerned about the nutrition and hydration of a patient I am caring for I will speak directly to a senior member of staff, the patient’s carer and / or family members too. I will discuss any concerns I have in private with the staff member, carer or family members which may include things like the patient being dehydrated or reacting to a certain food and see what I can do to resolve this. I can then increase fluid intake, give the patient something for the reaction and make a change in their care plan.
If a patient is experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, for example, they may have low mood, feel helpless, increased tiredness, lack motivation and feel irritable. They may also not want to interact with family members or carers. Patient’s that deal with conditions such as anxiety may have increased heart rate and feel like they have loss of control; they may also have negative thoughts. If a patient suffers from dementia, they can feel confused, scared and irritated. They may also misplace their belongings, feel unsure of their surroundings and forget details; it is easy for patients with dementia to get lost in the hospital. As living with dementia is difficult, the patients may feel like they are becoming a burden for their family or carers.
If patients have learning difficulties they may need extra support, lack self-awareness or may have problems communicating their needs verbally which could result in them feeling frustrated.
