J Gerontol Nurs
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Review Comparative Study
Family caregivers making life-sustaining treatment decisions: factors associated with role strain and ease.
Although recent studies have focused on life-sustaining treatment (LST) decision-making by families, research has not examined such decision-making as an aspect of ongoing caregiving by family caregivers. This article focuses on factors associated with family caregiver role strain and ease in LST decision-making. ⋯ Factors affecting the strain and ease felt by family caregivers exist not only during the actual decision-making period, but also arise during the days, months, and years prior to the event and continue on after the LST decisions have been made. Nurses' knowledge of these factors can help nurses decrease family caregiver strain and increase ease during the family caregiver LST decision-making process.
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This article is a review of basic, but important information about disaster planning considerations for older populations. The recent hurricane experiences in the South confirmed how critical this planning is, and the importance of early evacuation in saving lives. This is highlighted when comparing the official responses during Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita. ⋯ This requires having the resources and supplies to support at least minimal safe function. However, facilities in locations that could be isolated for longer periods of time should consider having even more supplies in reserve. Recent events may prompt gerontological nurses to ask themselves, their facilities, and communities--Are we prepared?