Gero

I am currently doing a gerontology placement. Last week, myself and another student saw a 76y/o patient who was referred due to decreased balance. During the session, we planned to do a reassessment of his calf swelling, review his HEP and work on balance exercises. During the treatment session, this patient would joke and comment on different things. However, in this case, it was important for the therapist not to take heart what was said, as the patient had a tendency to push the boundaries sometimes.

After we had finish on the treatment plan, the patient commented on the fact that he had brought his 4WW into therapy that day. He was asked by the previous student to bring his 4WW on the next treatment session. However, this was not documented in the notes. Therefore, we were not certain as to what was needed from the 4WW. The patient became angry as he had to bring his 4WW along. (He usually uses a walking stick, only using a 4WW for long distances). He also said that it was a lot of trouble for him to transport his 4WW to therapy. Throughout this time, he was complaining and using stronger language. My supervisor could not recall why the previous student had asked for the 4WW. She then decided to teach the patient how to safely use the 4WW up/down a curb. My supervisor had to first calm the patient by explaining the reasons as to why it was important for him to bring his 4WW to therapy that day. After much persuasion, the patient settled and was happy to learn.

I can avoid a similar situation in future, if I document accurately each treatment session (the treatment done for that session, a plan for the next session and ax/reax). On reflection, I can learn from what my supervisor said to the patient in order to calm and persuade him. She kept a calm voice throughout the reasoning process, and was patient when explaining.