Abstract
This article discusses the management of levodopa for older people who have Parkinson’s disease and live in nursing homes. It provides a detailed description of the diagnostic criteria and motor and non-motor clinical features. Against this clinical picture, the benefits and challenges of levodopa management are considered. A person-centred approach is championed, as it supports collaborative clinical assessment and decision making between nurses and residents.
To appreciate why a person-centred approach is important for safe and effective medication practice, the pharmacological basis of levodopa management is explained. An empowerment approach to medication management is advocated that facilitates self-medication by residents. To this end, the importance of continuing professional development for nursing home staff is discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 23-30 |
Journal | Nursing older people |
Volume | 28 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 28 Oct 2016 |
Keywords
- levodopa
- medication management
- nursing homes
- older people
- Parkinson’s disease
- person-centred care