Parkinson's Disease: Therapeutic Relationship (Nursing)

00:00 So developing a therapeutic relationship with a patient with Parkinson's has the possibility of all these challenges.

00:08 So no matter what stage they're in, no matter what their symptoms are, we treat all patients with dignity and respect.

00:15 Now make sure that you talk directly to the patient in first person rather than others in the room.

00:22 Sometimes people get into a really bad habit that the patient is there, and they'll talk to the wife, they'll talk to the husband, they'll talk to the daughter or son, and they talk about the patient in third person.

00:33 always talk to the patient in first person.

00:37 If you realize that maybe this is going to be a difficult communication, still make sure you talk to them.

00:44 Because even people with dementia want to be valued.

00:47 And eye contact in the American culture constitutes respect.

00:52 So communicate to the patient that you've got time to care for them and you'll be available.

00:57 Don't ever appear rushed or impatient because everything takes them longer to do.

01:03 And you want them to feel like they are your most important priority.

01:07 Now I know you've probably got 4,000 other things that you have to do, but the patient doesn't need to know that.

01:13 They need to know that they're valued, that you're there for them.

01:17 And in a therapeutic relationship, you're going to be available as much as you can.

01:21 And if there's a reason you can't be there, you let them know.

01:25 "There's one other thing I need to do, but then I'll be back.

01:28 I hope I can be back in like 10 to 15 minutes.

01:31 But if it's longer, I want you to know I haven't forgotten.

01:34 I just want to finish with another patient, and then I'll be back to you.

01:38 Is that okay with you? Then you're giving them some type of control.

01:44 So refer patients and caregivers to some resources that will help them deal with this.

01:50 Talking to other patients and family members that have dealt with Parkinson's is a great opportunity in a support group.

01:56 Remember that you're being patient.

01:57 You're allowing a lot of extra time for ADLs and you're communicating right to the patient and you're planning care based on their abilities.

02:07 I also give the patients contact information about the American Parkinson's Disease Association.

02:12 They have lots of resources for patients and families.