stroke as the major cause of disability in adults in usa
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States as well as the major cause of disability in adults (Xu, 2018). With appropriate disease prevention and health promotion, stroke survivors and individuals with serious complications have increased. The mortality rates have also decreased due to improved stroke treatment. Stroke is regarded as one of the diseases developed by long-lasting exposure to risk factors associated with lifestyle. Stroke is characterized by various physical and psychological findings that include sudden numbness and weakness in the face, arm, and legs. Additionally, sudden confusion and trouble speaking or even difficulty in understanding the speech are significant findings for stroke patients. According to Xu (2018) stroke patients have vision problems and difficulty walking. Gait balance and lack of coordination is among the significant findings for stroke patients.
Stroke is among the chronic illnesses which require long term care by families and guardian. The disclosure to the patient and family that a family member has stroke is devastating. Family members become confused, are shocked and become helpless. The patients become guilt and commences grieving and depressed. Stroke survivors, particularly in the early recovery phase, may engage in behaviors that are inappropriate or confusing to family members. If the stroke affects the family breadwinner, the family may experience sudden changes in income level which may suddenly result in depression and stress among families.
Healthcare professionals have the role to ensure that the patient’s care is prioritized. Most importantly, the nurse plays a significant role in restoring back the patient’s mental health. Farhoudi et al. (2017) indicate that the overall role of the Stroke registered nurse is to facilitate and support patients who have had an acute stroke to receive the right care in the right place at the right time. Nurses have the responsibility of providing an effective and holistic nursing care to the stroke patient as well as their family members (Kirkevold, 2010). For example, the nurse need to have a time take from which they can regularly visit the patient’s home to offer counseling. The nurse also needs to educate family members on the approaches that are essential in providing care. It is critical to provide walking support due to gait imbalance and weaknesses in the legs. To achieve a successful rehabilitation program, the nurse needs to embrace effective communication.
