Contributions of nursing to a holistic approach to Parkinson´s disease

Ma. Fernanda Medina-Pérez, Laboratorio Clínico de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Carlos A. Ugalde-Basabe, Coordinación de Investigación en Enfermería, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Guisety López-Cantera, Coordinación de Investigación en Enfermería, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Ana J. Hernández-Medrano, Laboratorio Clínico de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Mayela Rodríguez-Violante, Laboratorio Clínico de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Amin Cervantes-Arriaga, Laboratorio Clínico de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that manifests with motor and non-motor symptoms, impacting the quality of life of individuals living with this condition and their caregivers. Objective: To critically analyze the role of nursing care in the holistic approach to the disease in the home context, examining the conceptual foundations, the available evidence, the main gaps in its implementation, and its implications for quality of life. Method: Hospitalizations are due to comorbidities and respiratory infections. The risk of falls is high, influenced by motor symptoms, cognitive impairment, and medication. Psychosis, with hallucinations, requires environmental and pharmacological management. Results: Cognitive decline and dementia are treated with physical activity and cognitive training. Dysautonomias require non-pharmacological strategies and adjustments in diet and medication. Sleep disorders and delirium are common, requiring proper sleep habits and a stable environment. Depression affects functionality and quality of life, highlighting the importance of early detection and support. Caregiver burden is a crucial aspect that demands psychological support and comprehensive strategies. Conclusion: Nursing care is essential for comprehensive management, encompassing education, assistance, emotional support, and the promotion of self-care. The identification and prevention of complications such as falls, psychosis, cognitive decline, and dysautonomias are fundamental to improving the quality of life for people living with Parkinson and reducing the burden on caregivers.

Keywords: Parkinson´s Disease. Nursing care. Non-motor symptoms. Quality of life. Caregivers.