"An Understanding of Care for the Geriatric Patient" by Lois Jacobs Ricci

Date of Award

9-1977

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Gerontology

Department

Gerontology

First Advisor

Harold Salmon

Second Advisor

Boyd Morros

Abstract

Lois Jacobs Ricci’s thesis, An Understanding of Care for the Geriatric Patient: A Manual for the Inservice Instructor, focuses on the need for continuous education in nursing homes to enhance the quality of geriatric care. The manual provides guidance for inservice instructors, emphasizing that nursing home staff must regularly update their knowledge and skills to address the unique challenges of caring for elderly patients.

The study highlights the significance of inservice training in maintaining high standards of patient care, job satisfaction, and effective communication among healthcare workers. Ricci outlines key components of an inservice program, including the importance of understanding adult learning principles, the role of the inservice instructor as a liaison rather than a supervisor, and the necessity of structured yet adaptable training methods.

Additionally, the thesis covers essential topics such as medication management, nutrition, geriatric nursing techniques, and the psychological aspects of aging. Ricci also discusses reality orientation and remotivation therapy to help confused or disoriented patients regain awareness and engagement.

Ultimately, the work serves as a practical resource for inservice educators, reinforcing the idea that compassionate, well-trained caregivers are vital in improving the quality of life for elderly patients in long-term care facilities.

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