Introduction
Computed Tomography (CT) scanning is an essential diagnostic tool in the medical field. Even though it raises several ethical, legal, and professional concerns, this case study focuses on John Smith, a 73-year-old patient diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and prostate cancer. His wife is John’s legal representative and primary caregiver; she drives him to his contrast-enhanced CT scan appointment.
The project aims to analyze these obstacles and consider solutions to ensure the patient’s well-being and care. John Smith, a patient with Alzheimer’s, exemplifies the importance of recognizing the unique challenges of caring for those with dementia. The analysis will concentrate on obtaining consent, providing information, ensuring the patient understands and follows through, and meeting the patient’s and his wife’s needs. It will identify and resolve any safeguarding issues that may arise to ensure that the radiographer provides high-standard care to patients with dementia like John Smith.
Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues
The CT examination cannot begin without first obtaining permission from the patient. It is imperative to remember when dealing with patients with cognitive impairment, such as John Smith, who has Alzheimer’s disease. The spouse has legal power of attorney; therefore, John’s wife can make decisions on his behalf.
However, it is critical to ensure that John is given as much input as possible during the decision-making process and that he understands the procedure’s potential benefits and risks (Manthorpe et al., 2013). This goal can be met using simple, straightforward language and incorporating visual aids such as diagrams and videos (Azam et al., 2014). As John’s primary caregiver, she deserves to be informed about his upcoming surgery and allowed to ask any questions she may have.
Giving Information
It is critical to provide accurate and complete information to the patient and his wife to obtain his consent for treatment and ensure that he understands and follows the prescribed course of action. Avoiding medical jargon and other technical terms can help ensure that the patients understand the information given to them (Challen et al., 2018). As a result, breaking down complex data information and describing the procedure’s risks and benefits in terms the general public can understand is vital (Dening et al., 2011). Therefore, visual aids, such as diagrams and films, can supplement verbal information and provide a more in-depth understanding of the process.
Distributing written materials that can be read later and used as a reference is yet another method of disseminating knowledge. It could take the form of a pamphlet or brochure and include a more detailed explanation of the process and a list of frequently asked questions and their answers (Matthews et al., 2013). It helps the patient and his wife understand the procedure and act as a resource if needed. A multidisciplinary expert can help answer questions and provide insight, so having one on the team is a good idea. Medical professionals and social workers are two examples of members of such teams. They can help the patient and his wife by offering emotional support and assisting them in determining any issues or needs they may have.
Ensuring Patient Understanding and Compliance
Confirming the patient’s understanding of the procedure and willingness to comply is critical to providing safe and effective care. For example, a social worker or nurse could contribute to the interdisciplinary team that provides patient care to help achieve this goal. In addition to emotional support, this team member can help present information, answer questions, and provide assistance that the patient and his wife may require. The team member will help the patient and spouse identify needs, such as supplementary support services or special accommodations.
Making the patient as involved in decision-making as possible is another way to increase the likelihood that they will understand and adhere to the treatment plan. Incorporating the patient’s goals and preferences into the care planning process is critical. Involving the patient in the operation, such as allowing them to participate in the CT scan positioning process, can increase their sense of control and participation in their care (Hynes et al., 2020).
The patient’s sense of agency and agency in the process is enhanced. It is critical to keep communication with the patient simple and direct, as they may need to become more familiar with medical or scientific terminology. It is accomplished by presenting the operation’s risks and benefits in simple language and breaking down complex information into smaller, more digestible chunks.
Meeting The Needs of the Patient and their Spouse
Therapeutic success for at-risk patients like John Smith and his wife depends on paying close attention to their specific needs. For John’s sake, precautions should be taken to keep him safe. Setting up bed alarms and door monitors to prevent falls and creating a safe and relaxing environment for the patient are ways to accomplish this goal (Dewing, 2007). Confusion and anxiety can be reduced by tailoring the environment to the individual’s needs by providing low lighting, noise levels, and familiar objects. It is critical to offer emotional support and empathy to the patient and his wife.
Considering the patient’s and his spouse’s mental health by responding to their concerns and answering their questions about the condition as they arise during the procedure (Iliffe & Wilcock, 2017). It includes evaluating the patient’s and spouse’s psychological and emotional needs. They feel more empowered and invested in their care if they are included in the decision-making and implementation stages. Furthermore, they would benefit from being included in multidisciplinary team meetings and kept up to date on any developments in the patient’s health.
Providing the Best Possible Care
Dementia-specific policies, procedures, and resources should be identified and implemented in healthcare settings to properly care for patients like John Smith. Medical professionals can use dementia care guidelines as one tool. These recommendations should be followed when caring for dementia and cancer patients (Wittenberg et al., 2017). This care plan should be developed collaboratively by the patient, spouse, and the interdisciplinary team based on the patient’s values, priorities, and condition.
To reduce the patient’s confusion and agitation, the care plan should include specific measures for meeting the patient’s needs, such as providing appropriate accommodations (Jayes et al., 2019). Dimmer lights, moderate background noise, and the use of familiar objects are all acceptable modifications. Everyone benefits when patients and their loved ones participate in developing and carrying out treatment plans. It can benefit both the patient and his or her partner. It is critical to have easy access to targeted care services like those offered by a memory clinic (Dickinson et al., 2013). The resources provided by these programs may benefit the patient, the patient’s spouse, and the medical team.
Utilizing Policies, Procedures, and Resources
John Smith, like other dementia patients, deserves the best care possible. It is necessary to put in place appropriate rules, procedures, and resources to achieve this goal. The principles for dementia management in healthcare settings are a starting point for developing high-quality dementia care practices (Xanthopoulou & McCabe, 2019). The emotional needs of patients, as well as their involvement in decision-making, are emphasized throughout these recommendations.
However, a thorough examination of how these suggestions could be implemented is required. The patient and spouse should be given the information they need to make informed decisions. Furthermore, the treatment strategy must be tailored to each individual’s needs and desires (Dixon et al., 2018). When a patient’s health status changes, the care plan should be reviewed and updated regularly to account for the patient’s new needs.
It is critical, for example, that the patient and his wife have enough information to make informed decisions about the procedure. It is critical to ensure that the treatment plan addresses the specific needs and preferences of the patient (Wittenberg et al., 2019). Furthermore, it is critical to review and revise the care plan regularly to reflect any changes in the patient’s needs as their condition deteriorates.
Specialized services like those offered by a memory clinic, which assist in assessment, diagnosis, and therapy, are very beneficial to patients with dementia. These services, however, must be easily accessible, and medical professionals must be knowledgeable about how to use them. Care for those with dementia necessitates the development of standards, methods, and resources and is the only way to ensure that the patient gets the best care possible (Hynes et al., 2022). However, a comprehensive assessment of the principles’ potential clinical utility is required. Therefore, the patient will receive personalized care throughout their treatment. It is critical that specialized services are available to doctors and patients and that doctors use them comfortably.
Safeguarding Issues
John Smith is a vulnerable patient who needs protection against abuse and neglect. One strategy for identifying and reporting abuse or neglect is to be aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse or neglect, such as unexplained injuries, changes in behavior, or a reluctance to speak in the presence of certain people. Another strategy is to become familiar with the warning signs of abuse.
Furthermore, a protocol for reporting suspected abuse or neglect, such as to the appointed protection official or relevant local government agency, must be established (Miller et al., 2017). In addition, involving specialists in the patient’s treatment allows them to detect signs of abuse or neglect. Involving the patient and the patient’s wife in the development of the care plan and regular reviews of the plan can assist in identifying any changes or concerns with the patient’s health (Morriss et al., 2017). The healthcare team should be educated and trained to recognize and report abuse or neglect.
Ensuring Carer Awareness of Policies and Procedures
The couple should understand the protocols for identifying and reporting abuse or neglect to protect the patient. Providing written materials that answer their questions and address concerns about the policies and procedures they could be having is vital (Pennington et al., 2018). Doing so is done whenever it is convenient for the patient as part of the treatment strategy, consulting the patient’s partner, and the care plan may be revised regularly (Victor et al., 2020). It ensures that the patient’s spouse is aware of his or her current condition and any instances of abuse or neglect.
Educating the patient’s partner on the signs of abuse or neglect and how to report them can make her more vigilant and accountable if she notices any signs of mistreatment. The parties should feel at ease when conversing with one another. It is the most effective way to ensure that the patient is properly cared for and that the patient’s wife can express any concerns or suspicions to the medical staff.
Documenting Concerns and Observations
It is critical to keep track of concerns or observations and report them to the right person to detect and prevent possible cases of abuse or neglect. This documentation can be used as evidence in any investigation because it provides a record of the patient’s condition and any potential incidents that may have occurred. Immediately documenting and reporting any concerns or observations to the designated safeguarding officer or local authority is essential (Sinclair et al., 2015).
Some examples include documenting the patient’s current health status, any changes in behavior that may indicate abuse or neglect, and any suspicions or concerns about abuse or neglect from the patient. It is essential to document any concerns or observations and share them with the appropriate person. As soon as possible, report any concerns or observations and check that the documentation is correct, understandable, and easily accessible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are numerous moral, legal, and medical considerations before ordering a CT scan for John Smith due to his prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Before proceeding, the patient and his wife must consent. Clear instructions, a multidisciplinary team, and keeping progress visible can all help to improve patient compliance. Healthcare facilities should implement dementia-friendly policies, practices, and resources. Caregivers must be able to identify and report maltreatment to protect patients, and they should keep a log and report any problems. Available resources should be in place in a patient-centered CT examination that considers the patient’s and their spouse’s needs and preferences.
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