Nursing approaches and their effect on the health of elderly with COVID-19
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Abstract
This review aims to discuss the protection and appropriate nursing methods for managing COVID-19 in elderly. This is a narrative review study. The increase in the elderly population worldwide and the higher prevalence of comorbid diseases in this group, the elderly are particularly at a high risk during this pandemic. Nurses are involved in follow-ups and care as well as in primary, secondary and tertiary health services for the elderly. The disease has adverse effects on the physical health of elder individuals who have a weak immune system, limited activity, and difficulty in taking adequate nutrition. Conditions such as an inability to cope with stress, weakness, and hopelessness adversely affect psychological health. Furthermore, conditions such as loneliness, being away from loved ones, stigmatization, and abuse adversely affect social health as well. Nursing theorists such as Nightingale, Orem, Rogers who have significantly contributed to this discipline, have explained the relationship between the elderly and the environment, self-care, energy field, stress-coping methods, adaptation process, and spiritual care during a pandemic. Nurses have a significant role and responsibility in preventing the transmission of the virus, treating and caring for the infected elderly, and providing post-discharge rehabilitation.
Keywords: COVID-19, elderly, nursing, protection, theory
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