Alma Faulkenberger is an 85-year-old female outpatient sitting in the waiting room
Alma Faulkenberger is an 85-year-old female outpatient sitting in the waiting room awaiting an invasive pelvic procedure. The health care professional who will assist in her procedure enters the room and calls “Alma.” There is no reply so the professional retreats to the work area. Fifteen minutes later the professional returns and calls “Alma Frankenberg.” Still no reply, so he leaves again. Another 15 minutes pass and the professional approaches Alma and shouts in her ear, “Are you Alma Frankenberg?” She replies, “No I am not, and I am not deaf either, and when you get my name correct I will answer you.”
Using the Topic 1 Resources, develop a plan to help Alma be compliant with the procedure and post-treatment medication. Also, describe the approach you would take to patient education in this case.
Expert Answer and Explanation
Patient adherence is a crucial aspect that healthcare professionals must prioritize for optimal healthcare delivery (Snider et al., 2020). It’s imperative for healthcare providers to be well-informed about the various factors affecting patient adherence and take prompt actions to address these issues. The case of Alma Faulkenberger highlights the problem of the doctor mispronouncing the patient’s name, which resulted in miscommunication and non-compliance on the patient’s part. To foster compliance in Alma’s case, the doctor should implement a series of strategies aimed at enhancing patient collaboration (Snider et al., 2020).
The initial step in the compliance plan involves ensuring that the patient comprehends the core values upheld by the healthcare facility. Explaining to Alma that even healthcare professionals can make pronunciation errors without any ill intentions can help establish a positive rapport. Acknowledging the mistake and inviting Alma to express her preferred name or title can effectively address the communication issue (Snider et al., 2020). The compliance plan for Alma also encompasses collaboration with other medical professionals to gain insights into the patient’s specific needs, preferences, beliefs, and any other factors that could impact the provision of medical care.
In addition, the doctor can employ various techniques for patient education, particularly concerning post-treatment medication. Effective communication necessitates a collaborative approach between the doctor and the patient to identify areas of concern and the preferred teaching method (Cortellini et al., 2019). By tailoring the education to meet Alma’s preferences, the doctor can deliver the necessary medical information in a way that resonates with her, thereby reducing non-compliance and ultimately enhancing the quality of care and patient outcomes.
References
Cortellini, S., Favril, C., De Nutte, M., Teughels, W., & Quirynen, M. (2019). Patient compliance as a risk factor for the outcome of implant treatment. Periodontology 2000, 81(1), 209-225.
Snider, S. H., Flume, P. A., Gentilin, S. L., Lesch, W. A., Sampson, R. R., & Sonne, S. C. (2020). Overcoming non-compliance with clinical trial registration and results reporting: One Institution’s approach. Contemporary clinical trials communications, 18, 100557.
Alternative Expert Answer and Explanation
From time to time, while practicing nursing, one may come across patients who refuse to comply with directives. Elderly patients often display stubbornness and hostility toward anyone. An intrusive intervention is required in one of Alma’s cases. She is at once stern and disobedient. However, she could not have wanted to feel that way (Baryakova et al., 2023). To make her more comfortable with the situation and promote her compliance, it might be wise to urge another medical practitioner to offer her an apology first.
When the patient’s name was pronounced, and no one responded, I believe the healthcare worker should have questioned the client concerning her identification and whether she was waiting to be attended. Healthcare providers must inquire about the client if they have pronounced their name rightfully or whether that is how they would prefer to be acknowledged to demonstrate dignity and take cognizant of the actuality that not everyone identifies by their correct legal name.
Analyzing the communication approach must be the plan’s primary focus to help Alma comply with all procedures and subsequent treatments and interventions. The initial steps include introducing Alma appropriately and explaining the procedure, potential risks, potential benefits, and appropriate follow-up care therapy (Rothenberg, 2003). The healthcare provider may have demonstrated respect for Alma by using her full name and speaking to her in a way appropriate for her advanced age.
It is important to establish eye contact and smile while doing the introduction. Providing her with numerous opportunities to address any concerns is also essential. A caretaker, family member, or additional resource person for the client should be there throughout the process to keep them calm and comforted. Lastly, give her printed information she can consult, such as a surgical plan, directions for discharge, and an outline of her prescriptions.
The primary objective of client education is to guarantee that Alma is informed about the process, the planned outcomes, and the prescribed drugs to be needed following the therapy. This can be implemented by offering Alma complete details of the procedure and pharmaceuticals from the vantage point of healthcare providers. To convey the details, they must express themselves plainly, gently, and in simple terms.
It would also be valuable to let Alma talk to a healthcare professional concerning her concerns. It is imperative to deliver information to her vocally and in writing so she might employ it later (Atolagbe et al., 2023). The healthcare practitioner may want to incorporate visual aids like pictures or illustrations as well as real-world examples to assist Alma in grasping the process and prescription more thoroughly. Furthermore, it is critical to encourage Alma to go over all the directions and details to be positive that she comprehends.
References
Atolagbe, E. T., Sivanandy, P., & Ingle, P. V. (2023). Effectiveness of educational intervention in improving medication adherence among patients with diabetes in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare, 4, 1132489. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcdhc.2023.1132489/full
Baryakova, T. H., Pogostin, B. H., Langer, R., & McHugh, K. J. (2023). Overcoming barriers to patient adherence: the case for developing innovative drug delivery systems. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 22(5), 387-409. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41573-023-00670-0
Rothenberg, G. (2003). “How to Facilitate Better Patient Compliance”. Podiatry Today. Web.
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How to Deal with Non Compliant Patients
Dealing with non-compliant patients can be a complex task, but there are several strategies that healthcare professionals can employ to address the issue effectively:
- Listen Actively:
- When faced with a non-compliant patient, it’s crucial to start by actively listening to their concerns and reasons for not following the recommended treatment plan. This helps in understanding their perspective and tailoring the approach accordingly.
- Build Trust:
- Establishing trust is fundamental. Patients are more likely to adhere to medical advice if they trust their healthcare provider. Honesty, transparency, and respect are key elements in building this trust.
- Educate:
- Providing comprehensive explanations about the importance of the prescribed treatment plan is essential. Helping the patient understand the potential risks of non-compliance and the benefits of following the recommended course of action can motivate them to adhere to the plan.
- Set Realistic Goals:
- Breaking down a complex treatment plan into smaller, achievable goals can make it more manageable for the patient. This approach helps prevent feelings of overwhelm and encourages compliance.
- Involve the Patient in Decision-Making:
- Involving the patient in decisions regarding their care fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment. Patients are more likely to follow through with a treatment plan that they have actively participated in creating.
- Address Barriers:
- Identifying and addressing any barriers to compliance is crucial. This could include financial constraints, transportation issues, or concerns about side effects. Finding solutions to these barriers can significantly improve adherence.
- Personalize the Approach:
- Recognizing that each patient is unique and tailoring communication and treatment plans to their individual needs and preferences increases the likelihood of success.
- Use Motivational Interviewing Techniques:
- Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered approach that involves asking open-ended questions, affirming the patient’s autonomy, and expressing empathy. This technique can help patients resolve ambivalence about behavior change.
- Follow Up:
- Regular follow-up with the patient is essential to monitor progress, address concerns, and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. This ongoing support demonstrates the healthcare provider’s commitment to the patient’s well-being.
- Involve Support Systems:
- Engaging the patient’s family, friends, or support networks can provide additional encouragement. A strong support system often positively influences a patient’s commitment to adhering to a treatment plan.
- Document Communication:
- Clear documentation of conversations with the patient, including discussions about the treatment plan and any concerns raised, is important for continuity of care and legal purposes.
Why Are Patients Non Compliant?
Patients may be non-compliant with their prescribed treatment plans for various reasons, and understanding these reasons is crucial for healthcare professionals to address the issue effectively. Here are some common factors contributing to non-compliance:
- Lack of Understanding:
- Some patients may not fully comprehend the details of their treatment plan, including the reasons behind it and the potential benefits. This could be due to language barriers, low health literacy, or inadequate communication from healthcare providers.
- Concerns about Side Effects:
- Fear of potential side effects or adverse reactions to medications can lead to non-compliance. Patients may be hesitant to follow a treatment plan if they are worried about the impact on their quality of life or if they have experienced negative effects in the past.
- Financial Constraints:
- The cost of medications, treatments, or healthcare services can be a significant barrier to compliance. Patients facing financial challenges may prioritize other expenses over their healthcare, leading to non-adherence.
- Forgetfulness:
- Busy lifestyles, cognitive impairments, or simply forgetting to take medications or follow specific healthcare routines can contribute to non-compliance. This is particularly common with chronic conditions that require ongoing management.
- Perceived Ineffectiveness:
- If patients do not perceive the treatment as effective or if they do not experience immediate improvement, they may question the need to continue with the prescribed plan. This perception of ineffectiveness can result in non-compliance.
- Denial or Lack of Acceptance:
- Some patients may be in denial about their health condition or may not fully accept the severity of the situation. This emotional response can lead to avoidance of prescribed treatments.
- Cultural or Religious Beliefs:
- Cultural or religious beliefs may influence a patient’s willingness to adhere to certain treatment plans. Understanding and respecting these beliefs is essential for healthcare providers when developing a collaborative approach.
- Mental Health Issues:
- Patients with mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may struggle with motivation and self-care, leading to non-compliance. Addressing underlying mental health concerns is crucial in improving overall adherence.
- Logistical Challenges:
- Issues such as transportation difficulties, lack of access to healthcare facilities, or conflicting work schedules can pose logistical challenges, making it difficult for patients to follow through with recommended treatments.
- Unintended Consequences of Treatment:
- Some patients may experience unintended consequences of treatment, such as medication side effects or lifestyle changes, which can negatively impact their quality of life. These experiences may lead to non-compliance.
- Lack of Social Support:
- Patients without a strong support system may struggle to maintain motivation and adherence. Lack of encouragement or assistance with daily tasks can contribute to non-compliance.
- Complex Treatment Regimens:
- Complicated treatment regimens, involving multiple medications or complex procedures, can be overwhelming for some patients. Simplifying the plan or providing additional support can help improve compliance.
- Previous Negative Experiences:
- Negative experiences with the healthcare system, such as perceived mistreatment or dissatisfaction with past care, can create reluctance to engage with healthcare providers and follow prescribed treatments.
Why Is Teamwork in Healthcare so Important?
Teamwork in healthcare is essential for several reasons, contributing to improved patient outcomes, enhanced efficiency, and a more positive work environment. Here are some key reasons why teamwork is crucial in healthcare:
- Comprehensive Patient Care:
- Healthcare is often multidisciplinary, requiring collaboration among various professionals such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, and support staff. Teamwork ensures that patients receive comprehensive and well-coordinated care, addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs.
- Improved Patient Safety:
- Effective teamwork promotes a culture of safety. When healthcare professionals communicate and collaborate seamlessly, there is a reduced likelihood of errors or oversights. Team members can cross-check each other’s work, leading to enhanced patient safety.
- Efficient Workflow:
- Teamwork streamlines processes and promotes efficient workflows. Each team member plays a specific role, and when these roles are well-defined and coordinated, tasks are completed more quickly and with higher accuracy.
- Enhanced Communication:
- Good communication is a cornerstone of effective healthcare teamwork. Regular communication among team members ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding patient status, treatment plans, and any changes in condition. This reduces the risk of misunderstandings and improves overall coordination.
- Holistic Patient Perspective:
- Collaboration among different healthcare professionals allows for a more holistic understanding of the patient’s condition. Different perspectives contribute to a more comprehensive assessment and can lead to more informed decision-making.
- Adaptability to Change:
- Healthcare is dynamic, with evolving treatment protocols, technologies, and patient needs. A cohesive team is more adaptable to change, as members can share knowledge and skills, support each other during transitions, and collectively navigate new challenges.
- Patient-Centered Care:
- Teamwork is integral to providing patient-centered care. When healthcare professionals collaborate, they can tailor treatment plans to align with the individual needs and preferences of each patient, promoting a more personalized and compassionate approach to healthcare.
- Efficient Problem-Solving:
- Complex healthcare issues often require a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Team members can contribute diverse expertise and perspectives, facilitating the identification of innovative solutions to challenges in patient care.
- Professional Development:
- Teamwork fosters a learning environment where professionals can share their knowledge and skills. Collaborating with colleagues from different disciplines provides opportunities for ongoing professional development and the acquisition of new competencies.
- Job Satisfaction and Well-Being:
- A positive and supportive team environment contributes to higher job satisfaction among healthcare professionals. When team members feel valued, supported, and respected, it enhances their overall well-being and reduces burnout.
- Effective Resource Utilization:
- Teamwork allows for optimal utilization of resources, including personnel, equipment, and time. By coordinating efforts, teams can minimize duplication of tasks and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently.
- Cross-Training and Redundancy:
- Cross-training within a healthcare team ensures that multiple team members are familiar with various aspects of patient care. This redundancy is valuable in case of unexpected events or absences, ensuring continuity of care.
How Do You Facilitate Better Patient Compliance?
Facilitating better patient compliance involves a combination of effective communication, education, and collaboration. Here are strategies to enhance patient compliance:
- Clear Communication:
- Clearly communicate the treatment plan, including the rationale behind it, potential benefits, and any associated risks. Use plain language, avoiding medical jargon, and encourage patients to ask questions to ensure their understanding.
- Active Listening:
- Actively listen to patients’ concerns and address any questions or apprehensions they may have. Understanding their perspective allows for more personalized and patient-centered care.
- Patient Education:
- Provide comprehensive education about the patient’s health condition, treatment options, and the importance of adherence. Use visual aids, written materials, and digital resources to reinforce key information.
- Set Realistic Goals:
- Collaborate with the patient to set achievable and realistic goals. Breaking down larger treatment plans into smaller, manageable steps can make compliance more feasible and encourage a sense of accomplishment.
- Involve the Patient in Decision-Making:
- Involve patients in decisions about their care. When patients feel a sense of ownership and participate in decision-making, they are more likely to be motivated to comply with the agreed-upon treatment plan.
- Motivational Interviewing:
- Use motivational interviewing techniques to explore and resolve ambivalence about behavior change. Ask open-ended questions, affirm the patient’s autonomy, and express empathy to encourage positive health-related decisions.
- Address Barriers:
- Identify and address any barriers to compliance, such as financial constraints, transportation issues, or concerns about side effects. Collaborate with the patient to find solutions and workarounds to overcome these challenges.
- Cultural Competence:
- Be culturally competent and considerate of the patient’s cultural background and beliefs. Tailor your approach to respect cultural preferences, ensuring that the treatment plan aligns with the patient’s values.
- Regular Follow-Up:
- Implement a system for regular follow-up, whether through in-person appointments, phone calls, or digital communication. Monitoring progress and addressing any issues promptly can help reinforce the importance of compliance.
- Use Technology:
- Leverage technology to enhance patient engagement and compliance. Reminders through text messages, mobile apps, or patient portals can help patients stay on track with their treatment plans.
- Encourage Support Systems:
- Involve the patient’s support system, such as family or friends, in the treatment process. Educate them about the importance of compliance and encourage their positive reinforcement.
- Positive Reinforcement:
- Acknowledge and celebrate the patient’s achievements and milestones in their treatment journey. Positive reinforcement can motivate continued compliance.
- Evaluate and Adjust:
- Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan and be open to making adjustments based on the patient’s response, feedback, and changing health conditions.
- Emphasize Long-Term Benefits:
- Highlight the long-term benefits of compliance, emphasizing how adherence to the treatment plan contributes to improved health outcomes and quality of life.
- Document and Share Information:
- Clearly document discussions about the treatment plan, compliance issues, and patient preferences. Share this information with other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care.