CASE STUDY: NURSING HOME
Jane’s eighty year old father has been hospitalized with a stroke that left him severely debilitated with right sided paralysis and expressive aphasia. He requires total care. Jane is informed that her father is ready for discharge, and the physician has recommended a nursing home placement. Jane feels she should take her father home with her because her faith says to care for her parents. Her house is small, and she would need a bathroom added to the first floor. She also has concerns about performing her father’s care because she works full time and has three small children. She is unable to quit her job, because her husband’s job is seasonal, and they need the money. While visiting her father, Jane tells the nurse, Marie, that she does not know what is best for him. Her sister, in another state told her it is her duty to care for their father. Her husband says it is too much to take on with all her other responsibilities. Jane asks Marie what she should do.
How should Marie initially respond to Jane?
How could Marie help Jane work through this difficult situation?
How does Marie ensure the best outcome for her patient?