Includes bibliographical references and index.

Unit 1. Understanding the aging experience -- The aging population -- Theories of aging -- Diversity -- Life transitions and story -- Common aging changes -- Unit 2. Foundations of gerontological nursing -- The specialty of gerontological nursing -- Holistic model for gerontological nursing -- Legal aspects of gerontological nursing -- Ethical aspects of gerontological nursing -- Continuum of care in gerontological nursing -- Self-care for the gerontological nurse -- Unit 3. Fostering connection and gratification -- Sexuality and intimacy -- Spirituality -- Unit 4. General care concerns -- Nutrition and hydration -- Rest and sleep -- Comfort and pain management -- Safety -- Safe medication use -- Unit 5. Facilitation physiological balance -- Respiration -- Circulation -- Digestion and bowel elimination -- Urinary elimination -- Reproductive system health -- Movement -- Neurologic function -- Sensation -- Endocrine function -- Integumentary function -- Immune function -- Unit 6. Multisystemic disorders -- Infections -- Cancer -- Mental health disorders -- Delirium and dementia -- Unit 7. Gerontological care issues -- Living in harmony with chronic conditions -- Rehabilitative care -- Acute care -- Long-term care -- Family caregiving -- End-of-life care.