Clinical Practice Guideline: Parkinson's Disease (Revised)

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive, degenerative neurologic disorder that commonly presents late in life. Although there is no known cure for PD, treatment can often prolong the patient’s life, improve mobility and function, and enhance dignity and quality of life. Early detection of PD is essential to its effective treatment.

Understanding all the manifestations of the disease; the importance of basic, competent primary nursing and medical care; the roles of various disciplines, therapies, and specialties; and the concept of realistic goal setting for the individual patient are essential to effective treatment of PD. Effective treatment should be multifaceted, taking into consideration not only the individual patient’s physical needs, but also his or her spiritual, social, and emotional needs and concerns as well as those of the family.

This guideline recommends processes that, if implemented, should help long-term care facilities to improve the care of patients with PD. Potential benefits associated with the implementation of this guideline include the following:

• Earlier identification of PD and its complications.
• Better management of PD, allowing patients to maintain their highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial function.
• Greater individualization of care.
• Enhanced quality of life.
• Better documentation of, and rationale for, patients' personal goals and decision-making processes regarding their disease and its treatment.
• More appropriate pharmacologic therapy for PD.
• More appropriate practitioner participation in the care of the patient with PD.
• Improved patient and family satisfaction with care.
• More appropriate resource utilization.
• Improved treatment and monitoring protocols.
• Improved staff education and awareness of this complex progressive disease.
• More appropriate and timely referral to palliative care and hospice.

Order Information:
Product Code: CPG16R
Member Price: $15
Non-member Price: $35
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For additional information, visit the Clinical Corner on Parkinson's Disease.