Detecting Infections in Terminally Ill Geriatric Patients with Dementia
Published on May 19, 2023
Updated on June 26, 2024
Published on May 19, 2023
Updated on June 26, 2024
Table of Contents
One of the most important roles is detecting and managing infections in terminally ill geriatric patients with dementia. These patients are often at higher risk for infections due to their weakened immune systems, underlying health conditions, and limited mobility. Detecting infections in these patients can be challenging due to their limited communication abilities and other cognitive and physical impairments. However, early detection and management of infections can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and potentially prolong their life.
Sometimes, older people with dementia get sick from germs that cause them to have an infection. An infection is when germs enter your body and make you feel bad. It is important to know when someone has an infection so they can get the appropriate medicine and feel better. It is not easy to tell when someone with dementia has an infection because they may not act like other people who are sick. They may not have a fever or say they are in pain. Here are some things to look for that may mean someone with dementia has an infection:
It is important to note that not all patients may display all these symptoms, and some may not display any symptoms at all. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor these patients closely and look for changes in their behavior or physical condition.
Prevention is key in managing infections in geriatric patients with dementia. Some simple measures can be taken to reduce the risk of infection, such as:
If an infection is suspected, prompt management is essential. This may involve collecting samples for cultures and starting appropriate antibiotic treatment if necessary. It is important to work closely with the patient’s physician to determine the best course of treatment based on the patient’s overall health and medical history. Sometimes, it may be necessary to hospitalize the patient for more intensive treatment.
It is also important to manage any pain or discomfort associated with the infection. This may involve using non-pharmacological interventions, such as positioning or massage, or medications, such as acetaminophen or opioids.
Infections are a common and serious problem for older people who have dementia. They can make them feel very bad and cause more health issues. It is not easy to tell when someone with dementia has an infection because they may not act like other people who are sick. They may not have a fever or say they are in pain. That is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms of infection in older people with dementia, such as changes in behavior, appetite, mobility, skin, urine, or pain. You should immediately tell a doctor or nurse if you notice these signs. They can check if the person has an infection and give them the right medicine. This can help them feel better and prevent more serious problems.
It is also important to prevent infections in older people with dementia. This can help them stay healthy and happy. You can prevent infections by washing your hands, cleaning and sanitizing things, giving the person enough fluids and food, caring for their hygiene and wounds, helping them move and exercise, and keeping away from sick people. You can also help the person feel better and less pain from the infection by making them comfortable, such as moving or rubbing them gently or giving them some medicine to ease their pain.
Infections are a big challenge for older people who have dementia, but they can be detected and treated with proper care and attention. By knowing the signs and symptoms of infection, preventing infection, and managing infection, you can help the person with dementia live a better and longer life.
For more information on detecting and managing infections in terminally ill geriatric patients with dementia, please visit:
Infections in the Elderly Critically Ill Patients
Urinary tract infections in long-term care: Improving outcomes through evidence-based practice
Understanding Dementia (Alzheimer’s & Vascular & Frontotemporal & Lewy Body Dementia) (Video)
How Do I Know Which Dementia I’m Looking At? (Video)
Dementia Training material (Free)
Promoting Meaningful Relationships with Dementia Patients through Validation Therapy
Unlocking the Power of Validation Therapy in Compassionate End-of-Life Care
Validation Therapy: A Valuable Tool for Families and Healthcare Teams
Best Practices for Approaching Combative Dementia Patients
Dementia Insights: The Validation Method for Dementia Care
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The amount generated from these “qualifying purchases” helps to maintain this site and keep the site free of intrusive advertisements. If there’s nothing of interest below and you still desire to support me and this site, please consider donating for a cup of coffee or tea.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The amount generated from these “qualifying purchases” helps to maintain this site and keep the site free of intrusive advertisements. If there’s nothing of interest below and you still desire to support me and this site, please consider donating for a cup of coffee or tea.
How Do I Know You? Dementia at the End of Life
Sundown Dementia, Vascular Dementia and Lewy Body Dementia Explained
Ahead of Dementia: A Real-World, Upfront, Straightforward, Step-by-Step Guide for Family Caregivers
Dementia Care Companion: The Complete Handbook of Practical Care from Early to Late Stage
Providing Comfort During the Last Days of Life with Barbara Karnes RN (YouTube Video)
Preparing the patient, family, and caregivers for a “Good Death.”
Velocity of Changes in Condition as an Indicator of Approaching Death (often helpful to answer how soon? or when?)
The Dying Process and the End of Life
Gone from My Sight: The Dying Experience
The Eleventh Hour: A Caring Guideline for the Hours to Minutes Before Death