Course
Objectives
Upon successful completion
of this program, the nurse will be able to meet the following objectives:
- Identify specific neurological,
sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental,
and oncological health risks of adults with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate
nursing interventions related to these risks.
- Describe the impact of
Alzheimer’s syndrome on adults with Down syndrome and identify corresponding
nursing interventions to address these impacts.
- Discuss the health care
guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for adults with
Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
- Describe nursing implications
inherent in the decreased life expectancy, premature aging, and Alzheimer’s
disease common to adults with Down syndrome.
- List specific nursing
recommendations that address weight management for adults with Down syndrome.
- Define nursing interventions
within each of the four components of community integration for an adult with
Down syndrome.
- List key questions that
comprise the litmus test for measuring quality of life for adults with mental
retardation.
- Discuss the five components
of the asset management model for housing and services for adults with Down
syndrome, and identify nursing interventions within each component.
- Outline the continuum
of living arrangements available to adults with Down syndrome, and identify
the nurse’s role in arranging the least restrictive environment.
- Identify educational
and supported employment options available to adults with Down syndrome, and
discuss the nurse’s role in these areas.
- Describe significant
issues surrounding intimacy and sexuality for adults with Down syndrome, and
identify potential nursing interventions.