00:00
So developing a therapeutic relationship
with a patient with Parkinson's
has the possibility
of all these challenges.
00:08
So no matter what stage they're in,
no matter what their symptoms are,
we treat all patients
with dignity and respect.
00:15
Now make sure that you talk directly
to the patient in first person
rather than others in the room.
00:22
Sometimes people get
into a really bad habit
that the patient is there,
and they'll talk to the wife,
they'll talk to the husband,
they'll talk to the daughter or son,
and they talk about the patient
in third person.
00:33
always talk to the patient
in first person.
00:37
If you realize that maybe this is
going to be a difficult communication,
still make sure you talk to them.
00:44
Because even people with dementia
want to be valued.
00:47
And eye contact
in the American culture
constitutes respect.
00:52
So communicate to the patient
that you've got time to care for them
and you'll be available.
00:57
Don't ever appear rushed or impatient
because everything
takes them longer to do.
01:03
And you want them to feel
like they are your most important priority.
01:07
Now I know you've probably got
4,000 other things that you have to do,
but the patient
doesn't need to know that.
01:13
They need to know
that they're valued,
that you're there for them.
01:17
And in a therapeutic relationship,
you're going to be available
as much as you can.
01:21
And if there's a reason
you can't be there,
you let them know.
01:25
"There's one other thing I need to do,
but then I'll be back.
01:28
I hope I can be back
in like 10 to 15 minutes.
01:31
But if it's longer, I want you
to know I haven't forgotten.
01:34
I just want to finish
with another patient,
and then I'll be back to you.
01:38
Is that okay with you?
Then you're giving them
some type of control.
01:44
So refer patients and caregivers
to some resources
that will help them deal with this.
01:50
Talking to other patients
and family members
that have dealt with Parkinson's
is a great opportunity
in a support group.
01:56
Remember that you're being patient.
01:57
You're allowing a lot
of extra time for ADLs
and you're communicating
right to the patient
and you're planning care
based on their abilities.
02:07
I also give the patients
contact information
about the American Parkinson's
Disease Association.
02:12
They have lots of resources
for patients and families.