Unit 4 - Interventions to Improve Function

Question 1

What are some interventions for depression? (6)

Answer 1

• reduce impact of risk factors
• pharmacotherapy
• electroconvulsive therapy
• psychosocial interventions
• psychotherapy
• provide support

Question 2

What are the goals of care in reducing risk in depression? (4)

Answer 2

1. Improve sensory functioning
2. Manage chronic conditions, including pain, reduced range of motion
3. Look for adverse medication effects
4. reduce alcohol intake

Question 3

How can we use pharmacotherapy as an intervention to improve function? (2)

Answer 3

• teach about reasons for medications, when to take them, and possible adverse effects
• medications can improve function of persons with dementia by decreasing the affective symptoms

Question 4

What are SSRIs? (2)

Answer 4

• increase risk for hyponatremia (low sodium)
• adverse side effects include nausea, dizziness, hyponatremia

Question 5

What are cyclic Anti-depressants? (2)

Answer 5

• adverse effects on CV system
• Anti-cholinergic effect:
• blurred vision, urinary retention, cognitive impairments

Question 6

What are the nursing interventions? (7) Use the following words:
Provide
Promote
Provide
maximize
Optimize
Support
Ensure

Answer 6

1. Provide a therapeutic relationship and referrals to other HCP
2. Promote health through physical activity and nutrition
3. Provide education and counselling
4. Maximize a person’s sense of meaning control and autonomy
5. Optimize pain control and relaxation therapy
6. Support strengths, capabilities, and hope
7. Ensure safety

Question 7

What activities can improve psychosocial function to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults? (5)

Answer 7

• reminiscence therapy
• physical exercise programs
• video calls with family
• horticultural therapy
• gender-based social groups

Question 8

What are the consequences of nutrition on mental health? (4)

Answer 8

• not eating can cause additional negative functional consequences
• good nutrition has a positive effect on mental and cognitive function
• Watch for the negative consequence of constipation
• depression can lead to malnutrition

Question 9

Does spirituality moderate the symptoms of depression and the meaning of life? (2)

Answer 9

• older adults with high levels of spirituality and depression maintained their meaning of life
• spirituality has a protective factor against loss of meaning of life, and was associated with less depressive symptoms