Problem
Mrs. Gregg is a 55-year-old widow who has had an active career as a lawyer. She is an avid reader. She is an independent woman who has had to adapt to many changes in her life. She enjoys crafts and sings in the choir at her church. She has an adult son and daughter, and two grandchildren who visit her frequently. She lives in her own home, a small bungalow in the city.
You are assigned to give care and support to Mrs. Gregg, who had a stroke two weeks ago. She is paralyzed on the left side and has difficulty speaking. She is able to hear well and can understand when you speak to her. The long-term goals for her care include:
a) regaining mobility
b) regaining speech
c) being as independent as possible
d) preventing complications such as contractures and pressure sores
You are required to assist her to participate fully in all activities of daily living, and assist to meet her physical, safety, and psychosocial needs.
• What information would you want to find out about Mrs. Gregg and her home before beginning her care?