Case Study Assignment: Sallie Mae Fishers

Case Study: Sallie Mae Fishers
Name
Institution
Case Study: Sallie Mae Fishers
MS. Fisher is an 82- year old female with a history of chronic congestive heart failure (CHF), atrial fibrillation and hypertension. In the last six months, she has been admitted four times as her CHF worsens (GCU, 2018). By the time the nurse accompanied by a nursing student visited her; she had just been discharged a few days earlier. The following problems were identified: dehydration, unsafe living environment, depression and little knowledge of her diagnosis.
The main problem is dehydration. Ms. Fishers’ vital signs are temperature 97.8F, respiratory rate 24, blood pressure 90/56, and heart rate 58. The physical assessment shows dry mucous membranes, skin turgor, tenting, 14-pound weight loss in one week, hyperactive bowel sounds, and no bowel movement for three days (GCU, 2018). She complains of not having an appetite. Among her medication is Lasix, a diuretic, which also contributes to her fluid loss. The findings strongly suggest dehydration, which may cause kidney injury, seizures, and hypovolemic shock if not treated (Hooper et al., 2014).
An unsafe living environment is a next problem. As Ms. Foshers walks towards the door, a loose rug on the floor nearly made her fall. Prescriptions are all over the table and mail on the couch which could potentially cause her to overdose on her medication accidentally. The disorganization in the house and her age puts her at high risk of falls; she complains of her mind being cloudy, and she does not exhibit good balance when walking. A fall may cause serious such as a head injury and broken bones. Also, Ms. Fisher leaves her door unlocked, she welcomed the nurse by telling her to enter the door was open. At her age and weak condition, it is advisable for her to keep the door locked at all times.
Ms. Fisher is depressed and still mourning the death of her husband. She misses him, and that can be seen in her conversation with the nurse. She is no longer interested in the things she liked such as cooking and seems not to care anymore.
Ms. Fisher has little ...