A case study of nursing care for an elderly patient with pneumonia and severe sepsis

Abstract

        The elderly persons are at a higher risk of developing infections and highly susceptible to complications, especially severe sepsis due to their gradually changing and decreasing immunity. In the case study mentioned, an elderly bedridden person has a history of food choking, resulting in pneumonia and severe sepsis. If they do not receive timely and appropriate nursing care, it can lead to septic shock and even death. The elderly patient received holistic care that was patient-centered and collaborated with the family in nursing care plan using the nursing process into three periods, (1) critical care, (2) semi-critical care, and (3) recovery period with advanced care plan. In the recovery period, caregivers were trained in necessary skills for discharge planning, resulting in no complications or re-admissions. 

        This case study can be used as a guideline for developing a nursing service system to care for elderly patients with pneumonia and severe sepsis based on the Donabedian Model. In terms of: 1) Structure: zoning for critically ill patients, providing high-flow oxygen delivery systems, and enhancing nursing capabilities in patient care. 2) Process: comprehensive care, proactive care planning, surveillance for severe sepsis, and discharge planning. 3) Outcome: assessing patient satisfaction, complication rates, and readmission rates for nursing that effectively addresses individual patient issues and ensures good nursing outcomes.