NURSING TOOL BOX SERIES

  COMMON URINARY TRACT DISEASES IN THE ELDERLY Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) : Prevalence : UTIs are among the most common infections in older adults, affecting over 10% of women over 65 annually, increasing to nearly 30% over 85. Men also face increased risk with age due to prostate issues. Causes : Caused primarily by Escherichia coli (90% of cases), bacteria enter the urinary tract via the urethra, often exacerbated by: Age-related factors : Weakened bladder muscles, reduced bladder elasticity, urinary retention, or incontinence increase risk. Comorbidities : Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or catheter use heighten susceptibility. Hormonal changes : Postmenopausal women have lower estrogen levels, reducing natural defenses against bacterial overgrowth. Prostate issues : In men, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or bacterial prostatitis obstructs urine flow...

  Group formation refers to how individuals come together to form a cohesive unit, often for a shared purpose. It typically follows stages, with the most widely recognized model being Tuckman’s stages of group development: Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing , and later Adjourning (or Mourning). Here’s a concise breakdown: Forming : Individuals come together, often cautiously. They’re polite, assessing roles, goals, and group dynamics. Trust is low, and members seek structure or leadership. Storming : Conflicts emerge as personalities clash, roles are questioned, or goals seem unclear. This stage is critical for working through differences but can be chaotic. Norming : The group establishes norms, roles solidify, and cohesion grows. Trust builds, and members start collaborating effectively. Performing : The group functions at its peak, with clear roles, strong communication, and focus on achieving goals. Productivity is high. Adjourning : The group disbands after completi...

  CASE STUDY; SOMATOFORM, ANXIETY & EATING DISORDER a) Definition of Eating Disorders (5%) Eating disorders  are serious mental health conditions characterized by persistent disturbances in eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions related to food, body weight, and shape. These disorders often lead to severe physical and psychological complications and can be life-threatening if untreated. b) Five (5) Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders in Thandi (10%) Severe weight loss (BMI 16.5)  – Thandi is underweight, indicating malnutrition. Body dysmorphia (insists she is "too fat")  – Distorted self-perception despite being underweight. Restrictive eating (skips meals)  – Avoids food intake, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Excessive exercise  – Compensatory behavior to lose weight or prevent weight gain. Amenorrhea (no menstruation for 4 months)  – Hormonal disruption due to malnutrition. (Additional symptoms: Social isolation during meals, fainting...