Medical Nursing Care and Communication Barriers

Geriatric patients who are hospitalized in inpatient units for acute psychiatric symptomatology often have chronic and/or acute medical conditions. This chapter reviews several common conditions which may require medical nursing care in the geriatric unit. Various barriers to communication with the geriatric patient can contribute to misunderstanding, reduced compliance with instructions, and interference with delivery of essential medical nursing care. Although these issues can lead to frustration on the part of both patients and members of the healthcare team, anticipation and recognition of potential barriers can prevent disruption of essential psychiatric and medical care. Recommendations for management of the medical nursing needs in geriatric psychiatric inpatient are offered.