Nursing care of Leprosy patient: case study

Abstract

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic communicable disease caused by a type of bacteria Mycobacterium leprae, transmitted via droplets from repriratory tract and skin wounds and prolonged close and frequent contact with untreated cases. The symptoms may begin within one year or may take up to 20 years. The disease predominantly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT), the best way to prevent the spread of leprosy is through early diagnosis and treatment. The disease may cause progressive and permanent disabilities. This article discusses the nursing care of patients with leprosy, providing an overview of key symptoms, current illness history, symptom characteristics, health status information, treatment history, and laboratory test results. The nursing process is employed to assess health conditions, diagnose nursing care needs, plan nursing care, implement nursing interventions, and evaluate outcomes. The case study involves a 46-year-old Thai male with a rash appearing in various areas such as the face, trunk, back, arms, forearms, and legs for the past month. Dermatologists conducted a slit skin smear, revealing mid-borderline leprosy infection. The patient received treatment with a combination of multiple drugs and monthly follow-ups. The presented information can serve as a guideline for planning comprehensive nursing care for leprosy patients, covering physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects to ensure a better quality of life for the patients in the future.