Exploring Mental Health Concerns among Elderly Populations

Prevalence of anticholinergic medication use among elderly nursing home residents with depression is a significant issue. Research studies have found that the use of anticholinergic medications among elderly people in nursing homes is prevalent and associated with increased risk of falls, delirium, and cognitive impairment. Furthermore, depression is a common mental health problem affecting older adults, and it can exacerbate other age-related issues such as cognitive decline and physical disability. The studies also suggest that the use of non-pharmacological interventions, such as psychotherapy and social support, may be effective in managing depression among elderly people.

RESEARCH PROJECT
ROLE OF NURSES IN MANAGING MENTAL
HEALTH PROBLEMS OF OLDER PATIENTS IN
NHS UK

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND............................................................4
Task 1 formulating research specification...................................................................................4
CHAPTER 2- DETAILED LITERATURE REVIEW....................................................................6
CHAPTER 3 - METHODOLOGY..................................................................................................8
Task 2 implementing research project.........................................................................................9
CHAPTER 4- RESULTS OF RESEARCH..................................................................................21
Task 3 evaluating research outcomes........................................................................................21
CHAPTER 5- CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS...................................................27
Task 4 presenting the research outcomes..................................................................................29
CHAPTER 6- REVIEW OF METHODOLOGY..........................................................................29
CHAPTER 7- PERSONAL REFLECTIONS...............................................................................31
CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................32
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................33

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Caring treatment and quality services lies at the heart of the nurse’s role and functions. It
plays significant role in assessing the goals and objectives that were formulated for the sake of
patients and service users. The current research report is about the role of nurses in managing
mental health problems of older patients in NHS. The importance of their role has been assessed
with respect to their roles, duties, responsibilities and challenges that come through their way in
order to achieve the organizational outcome. The whole research report focuses on nurses who
are providing their care and services at NHS, UK.
The topic has been chosen by researcher because role of nurses in managing the mental
health of old age people is very crucial in their recovery and quick care. But, still effective
outcomes of the role of nurses with respect to increasing mental patients who are older in age are
not discovered yet by other researcher. Along with this research also identifies different
challenges that are attained by nurses as a part of their role in health care units.
For attaining all these objectives researcher has followed a specific and appropriate
research methodology. In which study has used exploratory research has been used. For
obtaining useful information research has followed effective primary and secondary data
collection method. Literature view of various historical studies provided a clear insight relevant
to the subject. In order to attain whole objectives researcher has exercised probability sampling
method for selecting sample from NHS. Along with this study has focused on qualitative
research techniques for analysing collected information.

CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Care of elderly people has been considered as the best when concern and treatment are
provided at their own homes. Ageing has been identified as the sure aspect which leads to
develop various problems with it. It is same with the elderly people who encountered health
status which demand intensive management. From the time patient is admitted to the hospital, till
the subsequent discharge always remains a challenge. In that case, delivering package of quality
care and treatment always remain a critical aspect (Anstey, 2008). Therefore, nurses plays
significant role that plays their part and parcel in looking after patients and work on delivering
them quick care and treatment for soon recovery. In this regard, mental health problem has also
been encountered. It develops from number of various health issues which are majorly affecting
the health conditions of elderly people (Valente, 2005). In similar regards, there is need to find
out the various roles and responsibilities of nurses in managing mental health problems of elderly
people. The report has been prepared with the intention to assess the roles that are part of nursing
care and treatment. The given research study is on understanding the role of nurses in managing
mental health problems of older patients in NHS UK. Research Project has been covered in four
sections. First section covers the Proposal which depict the outline of research to be undertaken.
Second section is prepared by formulating research specification and using agreed procedures.
Evaluation of research is made in section three. Lastly, section four consists of outcome of whole
study undertaken.
Task 1 formulating research specification
a) Identify and clarity the factors that will help you to choose an appropriate project topic
There is a presence of many factors that is likely to help in choosing any given research
topic. The choice is dependent on how widespread is the issue which would be studied by
researcher. The widespread nature of any topic aids the researcher in choosing the topic area.
The presence of sufficient literature studies done on a particular topic may also help the
researcher in making the choice (5 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Your
Dissertation Research Topics, 2015). In the same manner, the interest of researcher also plays a
key role towards topic selection. Having prior knowledge on the topic may assist the researcher
towards providing for a quality work. In this respect, the topic that has been selected for the
present study is on understanding the role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older

patients in NHS UK.
 Suitability of the topic: The selection of the topic is required to consider the factor known
as suitability. The selection of proper subject is essential to make the study suitable in the
eye of readers. For the current study, the researchers must take in account the proper use
of selection of factors that are actually valid for selecting topic. The rationale behind
taking this factor to show the effectiveness of selected topic has been justified
 Interesting subject: The topic should be interesting which makes the study appropriate.
According to the current research study, the efforts are infused to investigate the
understanding of the role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients
in NHS UK.
 Element for apt literature review: This is another element which proves useful in
selection of research project. Adequate literature was available on the subject matter
concerning the current topic of understanding the role of nurses in managing mental
health problems of older patients in NHS UK.
b) Purpose for your research
The purpose behind choosing the topic is that around a fifth of population that is present
in UK is over the age of 60 years. In this regard the old people tend to suffer from mental health
issues that are normal part of ageing (Mental health problems with the elderly, 2015). The
studies have further found that the majority of elderly do not have mental illness but a minority
of them suffers from the problem (Mental Health Statistics: Older People, 2014). The elderly
may suffer from dementia, experience emotional and psychological stress, loneliness as well as
isolation or loss of a loved one (Depression in Older Adults and the Elderly, 2015). The problem
is that these issues are never incorporated in the medical or health care system. The purpose of
the study is thus to understand the role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older
patients in NHS UK. It is only when there has been an identification of proper role to be played
by nursing staff then proper job related documents are can be given by the nursing staff present
in NHS UK.
Aims
To understand the role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients in NHS
UK
Objectives

 To assess the mental health issues suffered by older patients in NHS UK.
 To assess the importance of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients
in NHS UK.
 To recommend strategies that can be taken by nurses for managing mental health
problems of older patients.
CHAPTER 2- DETAILED LITERATURE REVIEW
c) Preliminary literature review which should include a critique of the key sources identified
A study carried out by Hert and et.al, (2009) on old people with severe mental illness
position concluded that patients suffering from schizophrenia, depression or bipolar disorder,
have other issues in form of worse physical health and reduced life expectancy. Hence, the need
is to make sure that the nurses have a key role to play in this respect. The study recommended
initiating cooperation and carrying out a shared care by diverse healthcare professionals. This
will not only increase the awareness of doctors, nurses and patients about varied mental issues
but also aid the nurses in providing proper care (Hert and et.al, 2009).
A research conducted by a Brown and et.al., (2003) on older patients suffering from
depression concluded that home care nurses face difficulty in assessing symptoms of depression
in elderly patients admitted in care homes. The research was carried out with an aim to
investigate the ability of health care nurses to correctly identify the presence of depressive
symptoms among old people. It has been found in the research that nurses play very critical role
in treating elderly patients with major and minor depression issues. The inability of home health
nurses to correctly identify the psychiatric disorders act as a potential barrier in treating old
patients. Thus the study recommends that employing nurses with skills and geriatric experience
can accurately diagnose symptoms of depression mental disorders in old home care patients
(Brown and et.al. 2003).
The research paper done by Gask and et.al., (2012), features a conceptual care model for
improving access to mental health care patients in United Kingdom. The paper outlined the
importance of quality of care services for healthcare agencies like NHS to effectively treat
patients suffering from depression and other mental disorders. It also highlights the issues of
limited care access to patients as well as efficacy of improved interventions in healthcare models.
Both the factors are critical in treating patients who suffer from severe mental disorders. Poor

interaction with health professionals such as nurses and limited access to care services act as
barriers in treating older patients. The paper also recommends improvements of care services to
effectively treat patients who are diagnosed with mental health problems (Gask and et.al., 2012).
The study carried out by Katon and et. al., (2001), features the development of evidence
based healthcare approach for serving patients with chronic and mental illness. It describes the
importance of care principles that are vital for improving the care services given by the
organized health care organizations. It recommends the reorganization of roles of care
professionals such as specialists, physicians and nurses in order to provide improved healthcare
services to patients suffering from chronic diseases such as depression, diabetes, asthma and
major mental disorders (Katon and et. al., 2001).
The study conducted by Cody, Beck and Svarstad, (2002), highlights that nursing homes
need to apply non pharmacologic interventions while treating problem behavior of care patients.
The article features different internal and external factors that act as barriers to the use of
nonpharmalogical interventions. It highlights the most common cause of mental disorders in
hospitalized elderly people is dementia. The article concludes that there should be effective
communication between physicians, nurses’ directors and monitors in order to fulfill the unmet
needs of patients seeking treatment at hospitals and nursing homes. According to the authors, the
internal and external barriers need to be overcome in order to prevent mental disorders in elderly
patients (Cody, Beck and Svarstad, 2002).
According to a research article by Glover and et.al., (2014), older people with mental
conditions like dementia, delirium and depression are often hospitalized which can further cause
distress and complicate their health problems. General hospitals do not to treat the old people
with psychiatric disorders as they fail to assess their mental health needs effectively. The
research concluded that hospitalized mental patients have several health care needs which need
to be addressed effectively. In order to meet the mental health needs of old patients the care
organizations should restructure the medical, diagnostic and nursing facilities. The study also
evaluated the role of nurses in assessing the care needs of old people by delivering them
comprehensive geriatric assessment.
The study carried out by Cole, (2005), features that 50 percent of elderly patients who are
hospitalized suffer from Delirium. It is a mental disorder that is characterized by memory
impairment, disturbances in consciousness and rapid changes in behavior. Old patients who

suffer from delirium develop dementia at the later stage of life if not treated well. The severity of
the condition increases with prolonged hospital stay and many other factors. The study analyses
the role of nurses in correctly screening the symptoms of delirium in the affected patient. The
study recommends the systematic detection of the condition at an early stage that can be
beneficial for the old patients in initiating the treatment (Cole, 2005).
CHAPTER 3 - METHODOLOGY
d) Chosen methodology with justification
 Research design: Exploratory research design has been chosen for the study as there is a
dearth of literature on this topic. Moreover, the issue is yet to be explored by the
researchers in terms of understanding the role of nurses with respect to handing older
patients suffering from mental problems (Kelly and Lesh, 2012).
 Secondary data collection: The data collection will be done by secondary literature. Here,
newspaper articles, online reference, books as well as journal articles on role of nurses in
managing mental health problems of older patients will be referred. The choice is
justified as secondary collection will assist in judging the importance of nurses as well as
varied kinds of mental problems faced by older patients.
 Primary data collection: Survey session will be carried out on senior management who
work with elder patients in NHS. Week, in this regard, open and close ended question set
will be sent to them. Questions will be asked with respect mental health problems faced
by older patients as well as what role nurses can play in older patient management with
respect to mental health issues. The selection has been justified so as to assist in
analyzing the views of senior management with respect to nurse role in treating older
patients suffering from mental issues. Sample technique will be convenience sampling so
as to ensure towards convenient accessibility and proximity to the researcher.
 Data analysis: Thematic analysis will be used for the study where there would be
identification of themes (Pittenger, 2003). The selected technique has been justified due
to secondary nature of study topic.
e) Develop an action plan
Activity 1st
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Deciding
on study
topic
Defining
purpose of
study
Defining
Aim and
Objectives
of the
Research
Summarizi
ng the
Literature
Review for
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research
Applying
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Revising
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Report
Submission
Task 2 implementing research project
a) Carrying out a literature review (secondary research)
Mental health issues suffered by older patients in NHS UK
According to Moula, Mumu and Flora (2011), mental health is inclusive of various

symptoms and diagnosis. This covers depression, phobias, compulsive disorder, schizophrenia,
eating or personality disorder, etc. As stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), mental
health is not only regarding the absence of mental disorder. They have defined this as the state of
well-being in which every human being recognizes his or her own potential (Moula, Mumu and
Flora, 2011). It is in order to cope with the normal stresses of life so that work can be done
fruitfully and productively by their own. With respect to the older people who are suffering from
mental health issues, there are various problems which are affecting their health. At NHS, older
adults are facing various forms of mental health issues. According to Sartorius (2002), role of
nurses is significant in managing and providing effective care and treatment to the elderly people
suffering from mental ill health (Sartorius, 2002).
As stated by Raue (2011), old age people are mostly found to be suffered from the
depression. It is a fact that this is characterized as a normal disease which grows with the age. It
is also identified as a medical illness which is under-treated and under recognized. The
development of depression is generally seen with the serious illness issues such as Parkinson's
disease, heart issues, stroke, diabetes etc (Raue, 2011). It has been diagnosed that number of
older age people are facing the problem of illness due to social or economic challenges (A
Framework for Mental Health Nurses, 2006). Job of nurse is essentially required to understand
these issues so that they may not take them to further harm. This is essential so that it may not
lead to further worsen the prevailing situation of older people and to the existing health status.
Role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients at NHS UK
Major role lies in providing high quality nursing care irrespective of kind of mental
health issue elderly people is facing. It should be stable and consistent for all the older people
irrespective of kind of mental health issue they are suffering from. According to Aparasu et al
(2014), in the field of gerontological dimension of providing nursing, the role of nurses should
focus on quality treatment and care. In UK, the proportion of elderly individuals is growing at a
fast rate. In contrary to same, there arise various problems where handling of older people
becomes unmanageable due to psychological challenges and difficulties (Aparasu et al., 2014).
The role of nurses highly depends on the skills and abilities of the nurses which tends them to
address the issues that are faced by the older people.
According to Dallaire et al (2008), role of nurses is to serves the mental nursing of the
elderly people focus on providing care. Their major work is to promote the psychological and

emotional well being of the older people. By communicating with them, they understand mental
health conditions which patients are going through (Dallaire et al., 2008). Along with this, they
play role of identifying the symptoms and plan strategies to get aware regarding exacerbate
mental health conditions of the patients.
In the similar fashion, Kå mpf (2009) asserted that nursing of mental health work includes
taking care of the clients or elderly people who are victim of issues such as depression, anxiety,
bi polar disorder and schizophrenia. Therefore, it can be said that role of nurse is interesting and
varied (Kå mpf, 2009). In a streamline of various job roles which they are required to do consists
of mental health promotion and prevention, direct nursing care, training and education, specialist
mentoring and psychotherapy, etc.
As stated by Li and McLaughlin (2011), nursing role at NHS have been acquired through
clinical practices which are raised through two levels. These are basic and advanced. They
commence work at basic level where work is carried out through the individuals, families and
communities (Li and McLaughlin, 2011). The activities are comprises of interventions for
assessing mental health of elderly people, and improvement of their disability (Elderly Patients
in Hospital, 2015). Furthermore, interventions are inclusive of health promotions, management
of preventive actions for psychiatric mental well being. Moreover, it takes into account,
administering and monitoring treatments for psycho-biological regimens.
According to views shared by Bali et al (2014), nurses play integral role of bringing
improvement in medicines quality and care. They are inclined and are responsible for monitoring
and administrating medication. This includes practices of self-management of in taking of
medications (Bali et al., 2014). Along with this, they are also responsible for meeting the regular
needs and habits of the old age people.
In the words of D'Onofrio (2007), mental health nursing of old age people are required to
be met through standards at NHS. These are inclusive of specific follow up of both prevention
and interventions up-to elderly people care and treatment level. Understanding the phenomenon
of happening of any kind of uncertain event is required to be effectively assessed (D'Onofrio,
2007). The role of nurse is highly inclined in management and review of risk associated events
while taking care of the old age mental patients.
Along with this, Chatterjee et al (2014) stated that nurses are also responsible for
managing the old age person's reaction, attitude and beliefs. Since nurses are the carers who

spent maximum of time with the patients and old age people. Therefore, they can well work to
demonstrate the Root Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) in reducing
the impact of the happening of worst situation (Chatterjee et al., 2014).
Nurses who are taking care of elderly people suffering from mental ill health plays role of
maintaining and developing a therapeutic and collaborative relationship with the patients. Hence,
as a part of their job role, it becomes imperative for them to have interacting time with them
where they grasp the way in which they can share from them their psychological pain and
respect. They serve those older age people by planning the realistic assessment schedule. There
is need for them to make use of clinical reasoning where they can work to determine the care
priority along with two chief aspects namely, reporting and documenting.
As specified above and correlated with the views shared by Van Mierlo et al (2015),
nurses spent maximum time with patients. Therefore, they can effectively provide information
and communicate the risk associated with the treatment plan with the management of the
organization (Van Mierlo et al., 2015). The information are inclusive of related risk and
protective factors, mental status of old age people, current triggers that activate the feeling of
distress in them etc.
In a streamline, as specified by Ayalon et al (2010), mental nursing care has been
required to consider the most vital aspect of providing care with respect to human rights as well.
It must be effectively taken care that none of the action of the nurse may not cause harm to old
age people. It should be in relation to both psychological and physical harm as well. All the
respective provisions of care must ensure maximization of human freedom and liberty (Ayalon et
al., 2010). These are required to be maintaining at-most. The duty of nurse should ensure
responsibilities that should not compromise with the safety of the individual or older patient.
Strategies that can be taken by nurses for managing mental health problems of older patients
Taking care of patients who are facing the issues regarding old age and mental ill health
are required to be assisted through care and treatments. However, with the number of increase in
people who are rising with the dilemma of poor mental status calls for a need of strategic
planning. Care strategies can be planned with respect to improvise the quality care and treatment.
As stated in the words of Chalise (2014), in light of developing the ways in which nurses are
required to monitor the functions of older people. There have been authors who studied that
maintaining the daily routine of human being suffering from ill health is one way to maintain the

physical, cognitive and social malfunctioning of the individual (Chalise, 2014). This in turns
keeps and maintains the mental illness of the older age people. Use of medications should be
provided judiciously. It should be properly required to be made especially with respect to
geriatric dosages. They can also work in parallel with their work to provide education and
knowledge with respect to the care, support and nursing which can be provided to them.
In the words of Freeman (2000), the strategies which can be suggested in this regards is
to design and implement ways in which care can be worked. Therefore, simple coping strategies
can be planned. For instance, they can work out to keep the low voice in front of them. This
ensures their care and treatment (Freeman, 2000). The level of stress rises in them when old age
mental people are treated in the way. Therefore, it should be strategically planned and worked
out. Along with this, Orhan et al (2011) have suggested that the process of nursing should be
problem solving and interactive with their patient care and treatment. However, the nursing role
is very challenging and difficult, there is need for addressing various issues so that problems can
be planned and worked out to cope up with the well being of the mental health of elderly people
(Orhan et al., 2011).
Testing out proposed primary research via a small pilot survey
In the present research study, the primary data has been collected. It has been made with
the help of survey method where questionnaires were asked from the elder patients regarding the
role of nurses in providing care and treatment to them (Vostanis, 2007). This will help to know
about the strategies which can be implemented in managing the health issues of older patients.
Therefore, number of questionnaires has been prepared. However, in order to ensure the
effectiveness of questionnaires prepared, a pilot survey has been conducted. The rationale behind
the same is to ensure the appropriateness and suitability of the questions which have been asked
to the elderly people who are there at NHS, UK (Brown et al., 2003). A pilot survey is made to
get an assurance of questionnaire prepared will met the purpose of research being undertaken.
Along with the same, this has been proved useful in finding out the loopholes which have been
further reviewed during the work on the research project.
Resources required in meeting the research project
The rationale of conducting the research study is accomplished by the appropriate

matching of resources. With respect to the present research, the objective is to investigate the
role of nurses in management of mental health care of the elderly people in UK. Therefore, in
similar fashion, research questions have been formulated so that resources could be effectively
employed and can be allocated suitably. The resources which are taken as a part of the research
study have been detailed as follows: Financial Resources: Requirement of fund is major part of the research study. There are
various aspects where there is need to employ the funds. It commences with the
estimation of the budgets and other cost determinants. These are inclusive of allocation of
money for accessing information online or through any other sources, getting and buying
the research materials, payment by means of salary to the people who are associated in
the research study. Human Resources: The research study is incomplete without the participation and active
involvement of people who have contributed in the research study. Research assistants
play major role in overall research study (Burns, Cain and Husaini, 2001). They provide
help and support in using the appropriate and suitable data that make sense for the
research project. Their contribution and role is essentially vital and therefore need to be
properly chosen.
 Time Resource: The planning of the tasks and activities which are carried out in the
research study is made with respect to time (Ranhoff and Laake, 2007). Therefore, use of
Gantt chart as a tool will be used that helps in providing the layout in which research
study is required to be taken out.
b) Carrying out main primary research by organizing
QUESTIONNAIRE
(For senior management at NHS, UK)
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
Name:
Age:
Email id:

Q 1. How important do you think are nurses for a proper management of elderly people suffering
with mental issues?
Q 2. Do you think nurses act as an important medium for educating the families of elderly
patients about their mental problems?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 3. Do you think nurses take interventions for health promotions and management of preventive
actions for psychiatric mental well being?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 4. Do you think nursing role is difficult and challenging in coping up with well being of
mental health of elderly people?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 5. According to you, do nurses play an important role in identifying improvements in the
conditions of elderly patients with mental issues?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Kindly mark the following to indicate your level of agreement.
Q 6. Nurses help health care professionals in taking appropriate course of action regarding
treatment and therapies for elderly patients by making close observations.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊

Q 7. Nurses are able to finely assess the symptoms of elderly patients suffering with mental
issues.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
Q 8. Nurses are responsible for maintaining and developing a therapeutic and collaborative
relationship with the patients.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
Q 9. Nurses communicate information regarding risk factors and treatment plan to the health care
management.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
Q 10. Nurses are responsible for managing the old age person's reaction, attitude and beliefs
which have impact on patient outcomes of the health care organizations
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
Q 11. Is the role of nurse in providing care to elderly people is more challenging and difficult?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 12. Do you interventions in nursing practices helps in dealing with the mental well-being of an
individual.
Yes ◊

No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 13. According to you, provisions of care ensure maximization of human freedom and liberty
or not.
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 14. Is communication a valid method of understating the need and demand of mental elderly
patient?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Q 15. Do you find age as the most significant factor in growing issue of depression and
dementia?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Can't say ◊
Proposed approach and plan of action agreed with supervisor
Aims
“To understand the role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients in NHS
UK”
Objectives
 To assess the mental health issues suffered by older patients in NHS UK.
 To assess the importance of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients
in NHS UK. To recommend strategies that can be taken by nurses for managing mental health
problems of older patients.
c) Record and collate the data gathered
Theme 1: Nurses act as an important medium for educating the families of elderly patients

about their mental problems.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 15
No 4
Can’t say 2
Theme 2: Nurses take interventions for health promotions and management of preventive
actions for psychiatric mental well being.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 12
No 4
Can’t say 4
Theme 3: Nursing role is difficult and challenging in coping up with well being of mental health
of elderly people.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 13
No 4
Can’t say 3
Theme 4: Nurses play an important role in identifying improvements in the conditions of
elderly patients with mental issues.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 10
No 7

Can’t say 3
Theme 5: Nurses help health care professionals in taking appropriate course of action regarding
treatment and therapies for elderly patients by making close observations.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 5
Neutral 2
Agree 13
Theme 6: Nurses are able to finely assess the symptoms of elderly patients suffering with mental
issues.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 2
Neutral 3
Agree 15
Theme 7: Nurses are responsible for maintaining and developing a therapeutic and
collaborative relationship with the patients.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 1
Neutral 0
Agree 19
Theme 8: Nurses communicate information regarding risk factors and treatment plan to the
health care management.
Responses Number of respondents

Disagree 2
Neutral 2
Agree 16

CHAPTER 4- RESULTS OF RESEARCH
Task 3 evaluating research outcomes
a) Techniques to analyze findings
Theme 1: Nurses act as an important medium for educating the families of elderly patients
about their mental problems.
Findings: From the above graph, it can be seen that 15 respondents said that nurses are an
important medium for educating the families of elderly patients about their mental problems.
However, 4 out of 20 said no and 2 were not sure regarding the same.
Analysis: According to above findings, it can be analysed that nurses play very integral role in
carrying out their job and responsibilities. When considering the health issue of elderly mental
patients, it has been found that nurses play role of informing the associated family members and
friends about the health status of the patients. They intimate them from time to time. This is
essentially required as a part of an activity that shows the rate at which they are getting
recovered. It gives evidences of the time which they allot with them. Along with this, it also
shows the time and care which they provide to them and allot along with the elderly patients.
Theme 2: Nurses take interventions for health promotions and management of preventive
actions for psychiatric mental well being.

Findings: The above figures shows that 12 out 20 said yes and 4 said no regarding the role of
nurses in taking interventions for health promotions and management of preventive actions for
psychiatric mental well being of elderly people. However, there are 4 out of 20 who share no
opinion regarding the same.
Analysis: As per the findings made above, it can be analysed that nurses play another role by
implementing various action plans and programs in implementing well being of patients. In
respect of providing care and treatment to elderly people, they along with care and quality care
have been assigned to work out strategies that are in favor of patients. These are inclusive of
taking preventive actions that are taken for health promotion of the mental patients and their well
being.
Theme 3: Nursing role is difficult and challenging in coping up with well being of mental
health of elderly people.

Findings: When the respondents were asked regarding their opinion about the level of work
challenge and pressure which nurse went through, there are 12 out 20 who said that it was very
difficult. However, there are 4 who shows negative response and 3 shared no opinion regarding
same. Analysis: According to the data findings stated above, it has been evaluated that nursing
role is challenging and difficult. With respect to the mental health care of elderly people at
organization, it becomes more challenging and difficult for them. The care principles are
inclusive of both basic and standards which they are required to met. Along with the same, there
are various things which are managed by them as a part of their responsibilities.
Theme 4: Nurses play an important role in identifying improvements in the conditions of
elderly patients with mental issues.

Findings: As it can be seen from the above chart that 10 out 20 said yes, 7 said no and 3 can’t
say regarding the role of nurse in identification of improvement in conditions of elderly mental
patients.
Analysis: According to above findings, it can be analysed that nurses play integral role in
assessing the improvements of the condition of the elderly people who are suffering from mental
ill health. Nurses spend maximum time with them and therefore can effectively identify the trend
of health status. However, there are possibilities when due to lack of information and knowledge,
nurses may not be able to know the proper condition and may not help the doctor regarding
accurate health status.
Theme 5: Nurses help health care professionals in taking appropriate course of action
regarding treatment and therapies for elderly patients by making close observations.
Findings: As per the above diagram, it has been found out that13 out 20 participants were in
favour of above. However, there are 5 who disagree whereas 2 shown neutral behaviour.
Analysis: According to the above finding, it can be analysed that by engaging in close
observations with the elderly patients who are suffering from mental issues, nurses play role in
taking appropriate course of actions with respect to treatment and therapies. It has been also
examined that it has been part of their major role and responsibilities as it leads to impart better

treatment to the patients.
Theme 6: Nurses are able to finely assess the symptoms of elderly patients suffering with
mental issues.
Findings: On the basis of above pie diagram, it has been found that majority of participants that
is 15 out 20 strongly agree, 3 were neutral and 2 were disagree to the above stated statement.
Analysis: With relevance to above findings, it has been analysed that nurses play role of finely
assessing the symptoms of elderly patients who are suffering with mental issues. This is because
of the fact that nursing care is considered to be close treatment where patients are provided care
with affection and at most observations. This is required in case of elderly people by
acknowledging the fact that they are sensitive with respect to physical and psychological way.
Therefore, nursing role takes into account both factors in providing care and quality treatment.
Theme 7: Nurses are responsible for maintaining and developing a therapeutic and
collaborative relationship with the patients.

Findings: The above chart delivers the finding with respect to role of nurses in maintain and
developing therapeutic and collaborative relationship with the patients. It has been found that
majority that 19 out of 20 were strongly agree to the same. There are 1 who showed disagree
behaviour.
Analysis: The above findings have been analysed and it has been found that nurses play key role
in maintaining and developing a relationship with the patients. They are required to work in a
way that may build a relationship with them. It is essential in order to get recover their well
being and mental health status.
Theme 8: Nurses communicate information regarding risk factors and treatment plan to the
health care management.

Findings: As revealed from the above diagram, it can be stated that, 16 out 20 were agree, 2
were disagree and 2 were neutral to the statement. It was made with respect to role of nurses in
communicating information regarding treatment plan and care.
Analysis: Nurse has been assigned to play role of fostering effective communication. They act as
an intermediary in disseminating information regarding care plan of elderly people, their
medication and quality care to health care professionals, and family members of associated
patients. Along with this, they play dominant role in selecting the medium or source in which
they communicate with the patients so that they can be understood.
CHAPTER 5- CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
b) Appropriate conclusions from the results of your research, sensible recommendations and,
with reasons, suggesting areas for further research and/or action
Conclusions result of research undertaken
From the above research being undertaken regarding the role of nurses in providing care
to elderly people who are suffering from mental health issues, various outcomes have been made
out. It has been analysed that nursing care in health care units are challenging and difficult.
When it is about elderly people, it takes into account both physical and psychological well being
of patients. Since, they spend majority of time in offering care, treatment, medication and

observation, they occupy major portion of understanding the need and demand of the patients.
They themselves develop their strategies in which they can work to provide them care and
recovery plan for getting quick and better recovery. In a crux, the outcome of this research lies in
analysing the role of nurse in providing effective care and treatments to work on recovery of
mental health status of the elderly patients.
Recommendations and suggestions
According to the research study made above, the role of nursing care in looking after
elderly people who are suffering from mental ill health have been assessed. The study was
effectively carried out and accordingly the analysis has helped in arriving at meaningful
information. However, there are some of the recommendations which have been provided below.
It has been made with respect to equipping the role of nursing care in improving care of mental
ill health people:
 Providing care and treatment to the patients who are older in age and are suffering from
mental issue is challenging. In this regard, it is essential in part of management of health
and social care organization to provide nursing training. Periodic scheduling of plan for
training nurses regarding treatment and handling strategies will help in their role.
 Care and recovery plan are suggestible for the nurses to prepare. The rationale behind the
same is to work accordingly in looking after of the patients. This will act as a
contribution for them in quick recovery of patients.
 Communication is bets source which is recommended to nurses. In light of improving
their role, they can use variety of interactive devices and tools which can help them to
talk and action with elderly mental patients.
Areas for further research and/or action
With respect to research being carried out on role of nurses in managing care of elderly
people who are suffering from mental issues, the effective outcome have been arrived. However,
there are further more areas where further research is recommended. It can be with respect to
role of nurse in genetic counselling regarding the care of mental health issues. Moreover, the
research can be further made in understanding the roles and responsibilities in learning new
technologies and various ways to educate and handle patients (Cognitive Impairment and

Depression among Residents of an Elderly Care Home in Penang, Malaysia, 2010). The study
can also be further made with respect to analysing the cope up strategies that can be planned by
the nurses in quick recovery of patients.
Task 4 presenting the research outcomes
a) Use of agreed format for presenting outcomes
The successful research undertaken has been evidenced from the effective outcomes. It is
judged on the basis of conclusion that should be able to answer the research questions
formulated. The objective of conducting this research study is to assess the role of nurses in
managing the health problems of elderly people suffering from mental issues. The study was
undertaken with respect to nurses who are working at NHS. Following points are taken for
presenting the research outcomes:
 Research methodologies have been applied. With the help of various tools, the course in
which study is required to be undertaken has been defined. Use of both primary and
secondary data has been taken as a part of study.
 The whole study was presented in a specific format which is inclusive of both headings
and sub-headings formats.
 Formatting such as use of tables and paragraphs with bullet format has been used. It is to
show the reflecting of proper and appropriate presentation of research conducted.
 Media such as journal publication, professional body conference, documentary, press
report etc. has been used to produce the effective outcomes.
 There are various difficulties which have also been encountered. These are with respect
to finding of secondary data. Along with the same, conducting survey had been chosen as
a part of primary research technique. However, taking permission and managing
appointment with twenty senior members of the NHS was time consuming process.
CHAPTER 6- REVIEW OF METHODOLOGY
Reviewing Research Methodologies
Research design
Research Design is applied to the study in order to ensure proper layout to the study. In
his regards, there are five different types of research study. These are exploratory, descriptive,

experimental, causal, and case study. For the current research investigation, exploratory research
design has been chosen for the study (Pittenger, 2003). The rationale behind the same is to
analyze and find out the contribution of nurses in dealing different types of mental health
disorders in elderly people through various strategies.
Secondary data collection
Data collection has been considered as the integral part of the whole research study.
Secondary data collection is one way in which information is gathered through various sources
(Kelly and Lesh, 2012). Regarding the present study where there is need to find out the role that
are included in nursing services in health care units. For collecting the information about the role
of nurse at NHS in management of care of mental health elderly people, various sources have
been used. Data collection is made through newspaper articles, online reference, books as well as
journal articles on role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients. The
rationale behind using these sources is to analyse the effective information on importance of
nurses and the issues which they encountered in dealing with elderly patients.
Primary data collection
Primary data collection is another source through information is collected. In order to
make the research study more effective and reliable, there are used certain methods through
primary data has been collected. These are survey method, interview, focus group, observations
etc. For the present research study, where focus has been made in finding out the role of nurse,
survey method has been chosen. In that, questionnaire has been asked to the population in order
to know about the information. Questions formulated are based on the role of nurses in
management of mental health issues and their treatment. Probabilistic and non-probabilistic are
two types of sampling methods (Cole, 2005). For the current study, probabilistic techniques have
been chosen. Here random sampling has been done. Respondents have been chosen as senior
management at NHS. The number of samples that is sample size will be taken by simple random
technique. The sample size chosen is 20.
Data analysis
Analysis of data has been considered as the most critical part of the whole study.
Evaluation and analysis of data collected is required to be analysed in order to arrive at the
effective conclusion. Generally, there are two types through which data is analysed. These are
namely, qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques (Pittenger, 2003). For the current

research study, the qualitative data analysis technique has been chosen in order to get the
effective outcome. In that thematic analysis has been used for the study. This has been made with
the help of various themes which are identified on the basis of research study conducted.
CHAPTER 7- PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
The rationale behind carrying out the present study was based on role of nurses in
managing mental health problems of older patients in NHS. Performing study on this subject
matter was not an easy job. It demands great deal of skills, knowledge and proficiency to
complete an investigation. But the accessible ability and knowledge was not sufficient to
undertake the study. On the other hand, this study has given me chance to widen my
understanding regarding role and functions of nurses that are considered and played while taking
care of the patients who are older in age and having mental health issues as well. It is generally a
matter of great deal that is played in very challenging manner by the nurses at NHS.
By performing research study on this topic, I have equipped my exploratory skills,
research skills and expertise in many other dimensions. The completion of entire study was
achieved by doing each task and activity in step by step manner. At preliminary level on the
basis of the aim, objectives and research questions specific amount information was considered.
Through this studies or information of diverse authors and researchers, I had explored my
knowledge about concept of nursing, nurse’s roles and responsibilities at health and social care
units. On performing this task I have learned exploratory research skills and also acknowledged
how to investigate the data. Reviews of different studies have strengthened my acquaintances
about the same.
Further, in the next section of the study, I used various tools and techniques of research
methodology which was one of the critical tasks for me. By applying this methodology I had
developed my logical and analytical skills and proficiency. Hence, the researches and journals
which were based on this present topic of the study were used. By following the aim and
objectives of research, I also have enhanced my intellectual and analytical proficiency that how
these methods were implemented to examine the information.
With the help of entire research study, I have upgraded my perception and attitude
towards the various individuals. It also increased my professional skills and abilities in gaining
key words form the in-depth secondary data. Furthermore, it was also useful for me as it assisted

me with the concept of role of nurses in managing mental health problems of older patients in
NHS. It also improved my suggestion as well as recommendations part. Along with this, the
complete experience distended my competencies towards knowing new horizons of areas and
functions that are part and parcel of nurses at NHS. Therefore, each and every chapter of the
research report supported and enhanced me in attaining my aims and objectives in an efficient
way. This way, I become equipped well to arrive and present a meaningful conclusion as well
which resolve my research problem through an accurate and reliable approach.
CONCLUSION
From the above report, it has been analysed that role of managing effective care and
treatment for patients who are suffering from mental ill health. It has been summarised from the
entire research study that role of nurses is significant with respect to front lines of the health and
social care organizations. Along with this, their work and responsibilities serve and act as the
backbone of treatment and care of the patients. After determining and evaluating the job of
nurses in serving and offering quality care to the patients, it has been found out that they are
innovators who use their observational skills, abilities, knowledge and dedication to work for the
patients. This in turns have been found to bring quick recovery of the patients who is suffering
from mental ill health. Nurses have not been assigned to focus on single pace of doing job. They
have been identified to focus on critical situations that are inclusive of aspect of working
together so that quick and timely improvement in the outcome of patients can be noticed upon.
They play responsibilities to engage families, friends, health care professionals etc in treatment
and care plan of the patients.

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to-consider-when-choosing-your-dissertation-research-topics/>. [Accessed on 30th November