Three-part APA Paper…. Part 1: Reflect on how those experiences from the Discussion Post impact your nursing practice now? Part 2: Discuss what ageing biases you have witnessed &/or perpetrated. Part 3: Create a community education plan to address ageing bias. The assignment should be written in an APA-formatted essay. The essay should be at least 1500 words in length and include at least two scholarly sources other than provided materials.
Title: Impact of Experiences on Nursing Practice, Ageing Biases, and a Community Education Plan
Part 1: Reflecting on Experiences’ Impact on Nursing Practice
Introduction:
In this essay, I will reflect on how the experiences shared in the Discussion Post have influenced my nursing practice. This reflection will encompass my learning and growth, professional challenges encountered, and the subsequent adjustments made in order to ensure the provision of optimal care to the ageing population.
Key Experiences and their Impact:
The experiences shared by my peers in the Discussion Post have fostered an increased awareness of the unique needs and vulnerabilities of the ageing population. One significant impact is the enhanced recognition of the necessity to prioritize patient-centered care. By acknowledging an individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional needs, I have been able to adjust my caregiving approach accordingly. This has led to improved patient outcomes and a more holistic approach to nursing practice.
Additionally, the experiences highlighted the importance of effective communication when caring for older adults. Age-related hearing loss, cognitive decline, and language barriers can hinder communication, thereby affecting the quality of care provided. As a result, I have integrated various communication techniques into my practice, such as using clear and simple language, utilizing visual aids, and ensuring adequate time for patient responses. This has promoted better understanding, improved patient satisfaction, and strengthened therapeutic relationships.
Furthermore, the discussions shed light on the challenges associated with medication management in older adults. Polypharmacy, medication interactions, and adherence issues are prevalent amongst this population. Consequently, I have implemented medication reconciliation and individualized medication education protocols, ensuring patient safety and promoting adherence. These changes have positively influenced patient outcomes and reduced medication-related adverse events.
Part 2: Witnessed and Perpetrated Ageing Biases
Introduction:
In this section, I will discuss the ageing biases I have witnessed and/or perpetrated in my nursing practice. Ageing biases are stereotypes, prejudices, or discriminatory attitudes based on an individual’s age that may influence the quality and equity of care provided to older adults.
Witnessed Ageing Biases:
Throughout my nursing career, I have observed several examples of ageing biases. One common bias is the presumption of cognitive decline solely based on an individual’s age. This bias can lead to a lack of thorough assessment and the failure to address other potential causes for cognitive impairment. Another bias is the assumption that older adults lack decision-making capacity, leading to paternalistic attitudes and reduced autonomy in care planning. These biases hinder person-centered care and perpetuate age-related stereotypes.
Perpetrated Ageing Biases:
Though unintentional, I have realized that there have been times when I have unconsciously contributed to ageing biases. One example is the unintentional use of dismissive language, such as referring to older adults as “sweetie,” which unintentionally conveys a lack of respect. Another bias that I have caught myself perpetuating is the assumption that older adults are less receptive to new technology or unfamiliar interventions. Recognizing these biases has allowed me to actively challenge and modify my assumptions, ensuring unbiased care provision.
Part 3: Community Education Plan to Address Ageing Bias
Introduction:
To combat ageing biases and promote age-friendly communities, education plays a vital role in raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and fostering empathy and respect towards older adults. In this section, I will outline a community education plan aimed at addressing ageing biases.
Needs Assessment:
Before developing the education plan, a needs assessment must be conducted to identify the specific areas where biases exist within the community. This assessment can be performed through surveys, interviews, or focus groups with healthcare professionals, community members, and older adults themselves. The results of this needs assessment will provide valuable insights into the educational requirements and preferences of the target audience.
Curriculum Development:
Based on the needs assessment findings, the curriculum for the community education plan should be designed to address the identified biases effectively. The curriculum may include interactive workshops, presentations, case studies, and panel discussions that deepen participants’ understanding of the ageing process, debunk common stereotypes, and encourage empathy and respectful communication.
Delivery and Implementation:
The chosen educational interventions should be implemented in various community settings such as community centers, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. Collaboration with local organizations, elderly care providers, and schools can help facilitate the delivery and implementation of the education plan. Engaging guest speakers, older adults themselves, and experts in geriatric care during the implementation phase can enhance the learning experience and reinforce the educational message.
Evaluation and Follow-up:
To assess the effectiveness of the community education plan, evaluation tools such as pre-and post-tests, surveys, and focus groups can be utilized. These tools will provide valuable feedback and insights into areas for improvement. Follow-up sessions and resources, such as online platforms or support groups, can also be established to ensure the long-term sustainability and reinforcement of the education plan’s key messages.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, reflecting on experiences shared in the Discussion Post has positively influenced my nursing practice, leading to enhanced patient-centered care, improved communication strategies, and evidence-based medication management. However, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to acknowledge and address the existence of ageing biases to provide equitable care. Implementing a comprehensive community education plan that raises awareness, challenges stereotypes, and promotes respectful communication can contribute to the creation of age-friendly communities and transform healthcare practices for the better.