Learning Objective #1: Discuss sensory and cognitive stimulation needs of geriatric/psychiatric clients

Learning Objective #2: Explain the nurse's role in collaborating with treatment team members to develop tools to meet clients' needs

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During a psychiatric-mental health care experience, faculty and 29 fifth semester nursing students collaborated with staff members to develop materials for “cognitive enhancement” for geriatric-psychiatric clients. Working on a “Mental Health Project” for a 22-bed comprehensive behavioral health care center, they joined with a Certified Recreational Therapist and other staff to design and develop “sensory and mental stimulation” programs for clients. Divided into 3 groups, each “team” of students generated a separate component of the project. Following a needs assessment at the facility, the first group provided items for visual and tactile stimulation: “Worry” bracelets, “tactile aprons”, flowers and ferns. Group two designed an activity box covered with different textures of fabric and included “stress-relief” balls, “koosh”-touch balls, and shape-recognition jars. They also provided “large-print” magazines on a variety of subjects: fishing, gardening, and crafts to assist visually challenged clients. Group 3 used the theme of “Seasons” to develop activity boxes related to Summer, Spring, Fall and Winter. Included were items for stimulating auditory, olfactory, visual, and tactile senses, (music CD's, votive candles, small pumpkins, colorful placemats, and other items). At the conclusion of the project all materials were presented to the Director of Nursing and Director of Recreational Therapy for client use. Outcomes were measured by high levels of staff and client satisfaction and by successful achievement of course objectives by faculty and nursing students. Comments from students: “All staff members seem to work well together and there was an air of teamwork and genuine cooperation between the staff.” “….I really believe in nursing….We are a voice for human beings. We are advocates and teachers. Most of all we have enormous power to make a difference in an individual's life and in society. What an amazing profession that I am truly proud to be a part of.”