The gerontological rehabilitation nurse role description was formulated by the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN) to recognize and explain the responsibilities of rehabilitation nurses that take care of elderly patients. It also ensures that they are acting in accordance with the predetermined Scope and Standards of Rehabilitation Nursing Practice.

Gerontological rehabilitation nursing is a specialty practice that is specifically tailored to the requirements of elderly rehabilitation patients. It recognizes three categories: the young old (65-74 years), the middle old (75-84 years), and the oldest old, or frail elderly (85+ years) (Schrier, 1990). 

Presently, one in eight Americans are aged 65 or older. It is estimated that the frailest elderly are the fastest-growing demographic, and by 2050, 20% of Americans (88 million people) will be above 65 years. In light of this data, rehabilitation nurses should be prepared to address the needs of an ever-increasing older population.

Rehabilitation nurses specializing in gerontology take into account the changes that come with age as well as any functional impairments brought on by injury or disease when they devise a plan of care for an individual. 

Factors to consider as an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner

Culture and education are intimately intertwined. Education is responsible for transmitting and preserving culture from one generation to the next, and culture shapes the way that we think about and understand the world around us. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the relationship between culture and education in order to better understand our society.

In order to provide suitable care for the elderly, it is essential for a gerontological rehabilitation nurse to comprehend and elicit the values, goals, attitudes and beliefs of older individuals that relate to their health, illnesses and general living conditions.

Objective

Gerontological rehabilitation nurses strive to promote physical, mental and psychosocial wellbeing for their … Continue reading >>>