Emotional and Mental Health Flashcards
Recognize the emotional and mental needs of patients, including pursuing interventions when necessary. (44 cards)
What is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs?
A theory that organizes human needs in a pyramid, from basic to advanced.
The levels include physical, safety, social, self-esteem, and self-fulfillment needs.
Which level of Maslow’s hierarchy includes food, water, and oxygen?
Physical needs
These are the most basic needs for survival.
How can caregivers help meet a patient’s safety and security needs?
- Prevent falls.
- Maintain cleanliness.
- Provide emotional reassurance.
Feeling safe is essential for well-being.
List TWO ways to support a patient’s social needs.
- Encourage social interaction.
- Assist with group activities.
Social interactions reduces loneliness and promotes emotional well-being.
Social needs help prevent isolation and depression.
True or False:
A patient must meet self-fulfillment needs before meeting physical needs.
False
Lower-level needs must be met before advancing to higher needs.
Define:
emotional support
Providing comfort, encouragement, and reassurance.
Emotional support can be through active listening, offering reassurance, and showing empathy.
It can improve mental well-being and overall health.
Define:
active listening
Fully concentrating on what the patient is saying.
Active listening builds trust and understanding.
List TWO common mood changes in elderly patients.
- Depression
- Anxiety
These can be related to life changes or health issues.
Which interventions can help a patient struggling with anxiety?
- Deep breathing exercises.
- Reducing triggers.
- Reassurance.
Anxiety can be managed with coping strategies.
Emotional interventions improve mental and emotional well-being promoting coping and recovery.
How can a caregiver assist a patient experiencing grief?
- Acknowledge emotions.
- Provide comfort.
- Listen.
Grief is a normal process that takes time.
True or False:
Dementia patients may experience frequent mood swings.
True
Cognitive decline can affect emotional regulation.
Define:
a defense mechanism
A psychological strategy used to cope with stress or anxiety.
Defense mechanisms can be healthy or unhealthy.
They include: Denial, projection, and withdrawal.
Define:
denial
Refusing to accept reality.
Denial can prevent emotional overwhelm but may delay acceptance.
How does withdrawal manifest in patients?
Avoiding social interactions or activities.
Withdrawal may indicate depression or anxiety.
What is projection in psychological defense?
Attributing one’s feelings to another person.
Often used unconsciously to avoid personal distress.
Why is self-esteem important in patient care?
It affects confidence and overall well-being.
Positive reinforcement can improve self-image.
Self-esteem needs involve feeling valued and respected by others.
How can caregivers assist a patient struggling with self-fulfillment?
- Support hobbies.
- Encourage goal setting.
Finding purpose enhances quality of life.
List THREE emotions commonly experienced by terminally ill patients.
- Fear
- Anger
- Sadness
End-of-life care includes emotional support.
What should a caregiver do if a patient expresses feelings of sadness?
Encourage the patient to talk and offer support.
Ignoring emotions can lead to further distress.
True or False:
Depression is a normal part of aging that should not be treated.
False
Depression affects both mental and physical health and should be treated regardless of age.
It may be characterized by fatigue and a loss of interest in activities.
Define:
anxiety disorder
A condition characterized by excessive worry and fear.
Anxiety disorders can interfere with daily life.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder?
(PTSD)
A mental health condition caused by past trauma.
PTSD can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
How should a caregiver respond to a patient with panic attacks?
- Stay calm.
- Provide reassurance.
- Encourage deep breathing.
A calm environment helps reduce anxiety.
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?
(OCD)
A disorder involving repetitive thoughts and behaviors.
OCD can interfere with daily activities.