Nurse’s approach towards people with cognitive impairment. Can it be expressed through the relation of companionship?
Louise Lévesque

SUMMARY

  The care of people with cognitive impairment associated to dementia is particularly demanding. I propose that the relation of companionship be expressed through the nurse’s approach towards vulnerable people form a congnitive point of view. This relationship demands “being” with the patient: To grasp his/her experience, to pay attention to his/her behaviour. Care constitutes the main link to ensure his/her well-being. The relation of companionship is the opposite of defeatism. Establishing a trusting environment, a different perspective, observing, listenig and taking into account the environment and life history of the patient remain essential elements in the relation of companionship.

KEY WORDS

Relation of companionship, nurse’s approach, cognitive impairment.

Vol. 14 nº1-2003