Managing perplexing patients: the case of Helen

The challenges faced in provision of high quality and effective care to geriatric psychiatric inpatients are substantial for all members of the interdisciplinary team. Common care dilemmas, including the interplay of social, medical, and psychiatric factors in treating complex patients, are perhaps best understood by examining such a case. The hypothetical case of "Helen" illustrates the multi-dimensional and often perplexing care needs of patients admitted multiple times for inpatient care. Linked nursing diagnoses, outcomes and interventions, and interdisciplinary care plans emphasize the changing care needs of such patients.