Management of Acute Gastroenteritis in Elderly Patients With Family Medicine Approach

Abstract

Aute gastroenteritis (GEA) is a diarrheal disease of rapid onset, without nausea, vomiting, fever or abdominal pain. Diarrhea is loose, watery bowel movements, moreover, usually at least three times in 24 hours. Based on data from the National Center for Health Statistics, the CDC reports that deaths from gastroenteritis are increasing. Adults over 65 years account for 83% of the causes of death so that it reflects that the most significant morbidity and mortality is experienced by age extremes. This article identifies internal, external risk factors and clinical problems that exist in patients, applies a holistic and comprehensive family doctor approach, and carries out evidence-based medical management that is patient centered and a family approach. The study is in the form of a case report. Primary data were obtained by history taking, physical examination and home visits. Assessment is based on a holistic diagnosis from the beginning, process and end by means of in-depth interviews, observations and patient filling sheets. Prior to the intervention, the knowledge of patients and families about gastroenteritis and nutritional intake was very low. After the intervention, an increase in knowledge and an increase in nutritional intake was obtained. The diagnosis and management of these patients has been carried out in a holistic, patient-centered, family approach based on the latest theory and research. There is an increase in knowledge of patients and their families as well as an increase in nutritional intake in patients.