Component Task: Home Visit to a Client with Mental Retardation (Intellectual Disability)

It is a purposeful visit by the RCPN to the home of client suffering from mental retardation. The nurse renders care with respect to the client’s and family identified health needs.

Aims

·         Meet the specific health needs of the client and family in their home environment

·         Monitor the progress of treatment, recovery and the coping strategies of the family

·         Monitor the client’s home environment for safety

·         Promote rehabilitation

·         Assess and identify stressors in the environment

·         Maintain continuity of care

·         Maximise client, family and societal level of independence of health or wellbeing

·         Build confidence of the client and family

·         Stimulate physical and mental activity

Requirements

·         A Well-Equipped Home Visit Bag

·         Community Map and or Ghana Post Global Positions System (GPS)

·         Manual/electronic area register/ records of the client

·         Means of Transportation

Steps

1.        Read map of the community to identify the home of the client

2.      Announce your presence, enter on response, greet and introduce yourself to client, family and significant others

3.      Establish rapport (refer to procedure) and enquire about the general health of client

4.      Approach client in a calm and respectful manner to gain his cooperation

5.      Involve caregiver in the interactions with client’s consent

6.      Enquire about client’s acquired skills/abilities and or schooling

7.       Educate parents/caregivers on the severity or otherwise

8.      Educate and Counsel the parents/caregivers on:

·         Special facilities available for client to help in the development of skills/abilities/education for his independence

·         Personal and environmental hygiene needs and safety

·         Nutritional needs of client

9.      Assess for client ability to engage in activities of daily living

10.    Refer problems beyond scope to the nearest unit or health facility

11.      Inform client/family about your next visit

12.    Leave your contact with client/caregiver and encourage them to call in case of emergency

13.    Document the care and findings in the report

14.    Express appreciation and depart