Current trends in the medical management of Parkinson's disease: implications for nursing practice

Abstract

To successfully educate and advocate on behalf of people with Parkinson's disease and their family members and caregivers, nurses and other health professionals need a working knowledge of current trends in the medical management of Parkinson's. The goal of treatment is to gain control over the symptoms of the disease and promote the best possible quality of life for patients and their families. This paper provides an overview of current approaches to the medical management of Parkinson's. It explores the challenges encountered when treating people with young-onset Parkinson's and those who experience medication side effects, in particular the increasingly recognised impulsive/compulsive behavioural disorders associated with some classes of medication. The key role of the nurse in symptom monitoring and promoting compliance with medication regimens is emphasised.

‘There need to be a balance’: Mental health nurses’ perspectives on medication education in university and clinical practice

“…Specifically, a more detailed pharmacology curricula have been called for, including a framework for defined goals for medication education (Dilles et al ). Equipping students with such knowledge would enable them to make more informed decisions as staff nurses and encourage them to advocate on service users’ behalf (Eisenhauer et al ; Magennis et al ).…”

Uncertainty and depression in people with Parkinson's disease: A cross‐sectional study

“…For example, MAO‐B inhibitors may cause orthostatic hypotension, hypertension, or hallucination (Shin & Hendrix, ). In addition, anti‐cholinergic and anti‐viral medication may cause impaired mental activities (Magennis et al, ). The risk of drug non‐compliance increases when adverse effects occur.…”

Initiation of medications for Parkinson's disease: a qualitative description

“…Replacement of dopamine is the most effective method of managing symptoms of PD and timely introduction of medication is important for long‐term symptom management (Magennis et al . ). Medication nonadherence and its negative consequences in people with PD have been well documented in previous studies (Kulkarni et al .…”

“…, Magennis et al . ). Levodopa has been the most effective medicine for managing motor symptoms of PD.…”