Nursing Interventions in Alzheimer's Disease: A Concise Practical Guide for Everyday Use

Introduction: Dementia is currently the fourth cause of death in developed countries, contributing considerably to major medical, social and economic burdens. Aim: To assess and synthesize current clinical evidence for nursing practices with key clinical concern for patients with Alzheimer's disease in hospital and in home ca r . Results: This critical review revealed 158 studies which aft er abstract perusal were reduced to 31. These were th n scrutinized for purpose, content, level of evidence and clinical significance. Hence, five key domains were identified as most relevant in both nursing clinical importanc e and patient/carer value, i.e. Memory Impairment, Chronic Confusion, Anxiety, Despair, plus Home Care Needs. . Discussion: Recognizing which intervention might be the most ap pro riate for each patient requires a broad knowledge of suitable strategies available and unde rstanding the level of AD in each case. The overall principle is to enhance as much independence as possible and to pro m te maintaining functional ability. Conclusions: Nurses caring for patients with Alzheimer’s disease off r continuous support under a holistic care model that includes the family and carers. Yet, thi s should be based on best evidence and clinically s ignificant interventions with the aim to maintain independence and functional ability for as long as possible.