Introduction
In order to explain to people without higher medical education the features of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and the pathophysiological findings that are characteristic of it, it is essential to try to characterize various medical terms and processes. As the main pathophysiological findings of Alzheimer’s disease, one should highlight the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain (Breijyeh & Karaman, 2020). Amyloid plaques contain a protein called beta-amyloid, which accumulates outside nerve cells (Vaz & Silvestre, 2020). Neurofibrillary tangles are made up of a protein called tau, which accumulates inside nerve cells (Tunalı, 2021). The accumulation of these plaques and tangles leads to the death of nerve cells and the loss of brain tissue.
Additionally, there is a decrease in the activity of certain neurotransmitters and the formation of inflammatory responses in the brain. These changes in the brain lead to the characteristic symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes (Tunalı, 2021). Besides, attention should be paid to inflammation. It is the process of forming inflammatory responses in the brain, which can contribute to the progression of the disease. Therefore, it is crucial to assess not only the current state of the patient concerning various pathophysiological processes but also to consider methods to prevent the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.
A Definitive Diagnosis of AD
A definitive diagnosis of AD is a critical tool in treating this disease. This conclusion is based on the fact that the sooner the symptoms of the disease are identified, and the necessary treatment is initiated, the higher the chances of minimizing the consequences. It is important to stress that the lack of attention to possible symptoms of the disease has severe consequences for the patient’s worsening condition. According to Govindaraju (2022), “the absence of accurate diagnosis and treatment is contributing to its fast rise as a global health and economic burden” (p. 2). The importance of making a diagnosis in time is determined by the fact that for a definitive diagnosis of AD, a study of specific symptoms and signs and exclusion of other possible causes is required. Therefore, one should stress that there is no one specific definitive test for AD.
The most effective and standard method in clinical evaluation. It means that a thorough medical history will be considered, including a review of symptoms and a physical and neurological examination. In addition, two more types of tests are essential, such as laboratory tests and imaging studies. Blood and urine tests are done during laboratory tests to rule out other causes of cognitive impairment (Tunalı, 2021). On the other hand, imaging studies can identify any structural changes in the brain (Vaz & Silvestre, 2020). However, it is vital to emphasize that the diagnosis of AD is mainly clinical, based on the symptoms and cognitive decline.
3 Ways in Which AD Differs from Delirium
In order to explain to a person, the distinctive differences between AD and delirium, it is essential to pay attention to such significant components as onset and duration, causes, and symptoms. People without medical training often fail to distinguish between the two diseases. However, delirium has vital peculiarities that differ from AD. For example, according to Eckenhoff and Terrando (2019), “Delirium can be observed during any portion of the postoperative course and may be associated with long-term morbidity” (p. 1). On the other hand, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, chronic condition that develops gradually over time, whereas delirium is a sudden and short-term change in mental function that typically lasts for days or weeks (Cheng et al., 2020). These characteristics are essential for differentiating two diseases.
In addition, particular differences are in the causes of AD and delirium. It is important to stress that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the degeneration of brain cells and the formation of plaques and tangles in the brain (Cheng et al., 2020). In opposite, delirium can be caused by a wide range of underlying medical or psychological conditions. Among symptoms, one can mention such AD symptoms as memory loss, difficulty thinking and problem-solving, and changes in mood and behavior. However, delirium is characterized by confusion, disorientation, and disturbances in consciousness, attention, and perception. Therefore, the difference between these two diseases is crucial and it is vital to understand it.
3 Factors from The Scenario and The Nursing Responsibilities Related to Elder Abuse
Among factors of improper care that should be highlighted, such as poor personal hygiene of the women and wrong clothes condition. The fact that she was wearing two different colored socks and her shirt was inside out proved insufficient care. The second factor is that the son and daughter are not interested in healing and caring about their mother, which is a common situation (Eckenhoff & Terrando, 2019). They ask questions, such as whether will this ever end, or say that they are just going to have to take drastic measures. The third factor is that the son says he must have forgotten to lock the door to his mother’s room. It is inappropriate not to follow safety measures and maintain the patient’s health condition.
The nurse is essential in treating patients, maintaining their health, and gathering the necessary information about their condition. Among the nursing responsibilities related to elder abuse, it is crucial to stress the following. First, nurses should document any signs of abuse or neglect, including observations and interviews with the patient and family members (Cheng et al., 2020). Second, nurses should educate patients, families, and staff members about elder abuse, including its causes and risk factors. Third, nurses should provide emotional support to the patient and their families and help them to access counseling, therapy, and other resources as needed.
The Impact of Genetic Mutations
The impact of genetic mutations on relatives of a person with Alzheimer’s disease can vary. If a person has a genetic mutation known to increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, their relatives may also be at an increased risk of developing the disease (Govindaraju, 2022). However, it is important to note that while genetic mutations can increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, they are not the only risk factor. Other factors, such as age, head injury, hypertension, and lifestyle factors, can also play a role in the development of the disease.
3 Possible Instructions for Care
Before identifying possible appropriate instructions for an older Latin American woman’s care, it is vital to examine the evidence explaining the poor quality of care for her son and daughter. Therefore, to draw up the first advice on the proper care for this woman, it is vital first to advise correcting the existing problems and paying much closer attention to her (Vaz & Silvestre, 2020). Maintaining hygiene and clean clothes are critical not only to the patient’s overall health but for improving her health in the context of treating Alzheimer’s Disease.
As a second instruction to provide the necessary care, it is vital to highlight safety measures. Healthcare providers should explain instructions to the patient and their caregivers about the importance of maintaining a safe environment for the patient, including securing the home to prevent wandering (Vaz & Silvestre, 2020). The third instruction is about appropriate communication techniques. It means that patients and their caregivers must be aware of appropriate communication techniques for interacting with the patient. For example, speaking clearly and slowly, using simple language, and avoiding confrontations or arguments.
References
Breijyeh, Z., & Karaman, R. (2020). Comprehensive review on Alzheimer’s disease: Causes and treatment. Molecules, 25(24), Web.
Cheng, Y., Tian, D. Y., & Wang, Yan-Jiang. (2020). Peripheral clearance of brain-derived Aβ in Alzheimer’s disease: Pathophysiology and therapeutic perspectives. Transl Neurodegener 9(16), Web.
Eckenhoff, R. G., & Terrando, N. (2019). The perioperative neurocognitive disorders. Cambridge University Press.
Govindaraju, T. (2022). Alzheimer’s disease: Recent findings in pathophysiology, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Royal Society of Chemistry.
Tunalı, N. E. (2021). Neurodegenerative diseases: Molecular mechanisms and current therapeutic approaches. BoD – Books on Demand.
Vaz, M., & Silvestre, S. (2020). Alzheimer’s disease: Recent treatment strategies. European Journal of Pharmacology, 887, Web.