Inconsistency In Nursing

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to analyze a concept on order to identify an inconsistency and area for practical research. A clinical experience will be used to illustrate a core curriculum concept. Consistency with our text will be explored. Next inconsistencies will be identified to provide the basis for a relevant research question in PICO format. The process of conducting research using the hierarchy of evidence will be discussed. A summary of research findings will be provided and used to support modifications in future nursing practice.

Primary Concept

The concept linked to this clinical experience is Mood and Affect. This concept explores how individuals experience and express emotions. Emotions are responses to stimuli

For example, it is stated that persons in a depressive state have limited interactions with others and tend to withdraw and lose interest in activities that were once enjoyable. This is exhibited in C.R., while talking to him, he reports that he has not participated in any activities and no longer plays golf or goes fishing like he did before his wife died and he moved to the nursing home. He spends his time in his room and does not participate in the facility’s activities and rarely sees his three sons despite them living a short distance away.

Also discussed in this concept are the theories of depression. Learning Theory states that patients experience depression as a result of a loss of control over one’s life. This could be a factor for C.R. in that he did not have control over his wife’s passing and his subsequent move to the nursing home. Another theory is Cognitive Theory, which states that those who are depressed focus on the negative aspects of life instead of the positive. C.R. has demonstrated that he sees the negative in situations instead of the positive. C.R. said, “I have nothing left to live for anymore so I don’t know why you bother” while performing nursing care. The text states regarding depression, “All present experiences are viewed as negative, and there is no hope for the future.” (Pearson 2011) The text also states that symptoms

In the case of C.R., I would make the recommendation to the nursing home that he have a roommate. I think it would prompt him to be more social and get back to the person he used to be before his wife died. He was not always antisocial with a negative outlook; it has been a development of the depression and grief. The companionship of a roommate could improve his depression or at least bring him out of his state of withdrawal. Another way of introducing companionship without having a roommate is to have a volunteer come to the hospital or nursing home to occupy C.R. by either playing a game or just