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History of Care for Individuals With Mental Health Disorders and Developmental Disorders

Unit 10 Lesson 1

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Outline the history of the care of clients with mental health and developmental disorders

Student Learning Outcomes

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History of Care

Long history of institutionalizing individuals with mental and developmental disorders
Often viewed as unable to integrate into society
Resulted from widespread misconceptions and stigma

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Conditions in Early Institutions

Institutional Environment

Large, overcrowded spaces with minimal personal space
Residents slept in close quarters

Lead to overstimulation

Lack of privacy and individualized care

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Conditions in Early Institutions continued…

Inadequate Resources

Facilities were underfunded and lacked professional caregivers
Residents experienced

Stigma
Neglect
Abuse (sometimes)

Documented poor treatment from the Middle Ages to mid-1900s

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Legislative Reforms

Community Mental Health Act (1963)

Initiated by President John F. Kennedy as a transformative approach
Federal grants for building community mental health centers
Focus on

Improving diagnosis
Improving treatment
Prevention of acute episodes

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Legislative Reforms continued…

Medicaid Act (1965)

Provided funding to enhance conditions and educate staff
Aimed at improving care standards in mental health facilities

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Deinstitutionalization Movement

Shift to Community Care

By 1980, psychiatric hospital populations reduced by nearly 75%
Transition to group homes encouraging social interaction
Less than 2% lived in large institutions by 2009, improving life quality

Community Involvement

Emphasized individualized needs and preferences
Encouraged active participation in the community

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Critical Thinking Question

A nursing aide in a group home notices that a resident often becomes anxious in crowded areas during community outings. How can the nursing aide best support the resident?

A) Encourage the resident to stay with the group despite their discomfort.

B) Provide noise-canceling headphones and suggest visiting a quieter area if needed.

C) Limit the resident's participation in outings to avoid anxiety.

D) Discuss the importance of adapting to crowded environments.

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Educational Reforms

Education of Handicapped Children Act (1975)

Mandated equal access to education for children with disabilities
Supported special education in mainstream public schools

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (1990)

Continued support for inclusive education
Enhanced focus on meeting diverse educational needs

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Educational Reforms continued…

Rosa's Law (2010)

Removed "mental retardation" from federal language
Promoted dignity and reduced stigma for individuals with disabilities

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Modern Care Practices

Improved Care Approaches

Focus on personalized care plans and preferences
Emphasis on empathy and understanding in healthcare interactions

Role of Healthcare Professionals

Critical in enhancing life quality through effective communication
Promote awareness and support for individuals with mental health and developmental disorders

Sandquist-Reuter, 2023

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Critical Thinking Question

A resident with a developmental disorder frequently expresses a need for privacy. How should a nursing aide accommodate this need according to best care practices?

A) Assign a roommate to encourage social interaction.

B) Provide a private space for the resident to retreat when overwhelmed.

C) Schedule more group activities to minimize time spent alone.

D) Encourage participation in communal meals to foster community.

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References

Sandquist-Reuter, M. (2023). Nursing Assistant. WisTech Open. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/nurseassist/

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