Slyer, Jason T.; Archibald, Ella; Moyo, Fernea; More

Early advance care planning and anticipatory decision making in the Alzheimer disease (AD) trajectory is a strategy NPs can incorporate to improve managing uncertainty around common decisions. This article explores decisions patients and caregivers face along the AD trajectory and provides resources for patients, caregivers, and NPs.

Scordo, Kristine Anne

The new hypertension guideline lowers the definition of high BP to 130/80 mm Hg. This means that millions of adults will now be diagnosed with hypertension and that many of those taking antihypertensive drugs are not at goal. The challenge is to communicate the change, the strength of evidence behind the change, and the options available to patients. Healthcare providers must be knowledgeable of the new guideline and ready to meet this challenge.

Pestka, Elizabeth L.; Evans, Michele

The use of family history of substance use disorder information as part of a comprehensive assessment of chronic pain can provide important data for treatment. This case example illustrates assessment, patient education, and brief motivational interviewing with referral to appropriate resources.

Pathak, Sushila; Duff, Elsie

Due to the physiologic changes of aging, managing behavioral issues and antipsychotic use is associated with adverse reactions that are more complex in older adults than in younger adults. Therefore, appropriate prescribing and evaluating the need to continue antipsychotics are necessary to enhance optimum patient outcomes. This article discusses best practice recommendations for NPs in Canada to help ensure safe use of antipsychotic medications in the older adult population.