Series Overview:

Increasingly, nurses in acute care hospitals are caring for patients who are admitted for a variety of conditions who present unique care challenges due to cognitive or sensory impairments. The goal of this two- part program is to provide nurses with the information they need to care for these patients safely, appropriately, and with dignity.

By 2030, over half of all Americans will be 65 years of age or older. The incidence of cognitive impairment from dementing conditions, such as Alzheimers Disease, as well as vision and hearing impairments, increases significantly with age. Without understanding how to manage the behavioral responses of a patient with dementia, acute care nursing staff can quickly become overwhelmed with care needs. Knowing how to respond to the needs of people with sensory impairment can ensure that these individuals receive individualized care that is safe and appropriate.  Nurses must also be informed of requirements for interpretation and communication adaptation that must by law be provided to persons with hearing impairments.