Nursing Care of a Monkeypox Patient with Immunodeficiency in the Emerging Infectious Disease Intensive Care Unit, Sakon Nakhon Hospital

Abstract

            Background: This case study aimed to comprehensively present nursing care for an immunocompromised patient with monkeypox (mpox) by applying Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory. Case studies are characterized by the absence of comparison groups, emphasize descriptive narration, and are particularly suitable for studying rare or complex diseases and situations.

          Objective: To apply Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory in providing nursing care for one immunocompromised patient with monkeypox.

          Methods: A 31-year-old Thai male patient with immunocompromised condition who received care from January 2023 to September 2024 was selected. Data were collected through interviews, medical record reviews, and nursing documentation. Nursing diagnoses were established, care plans developed and implemented according to Orem's theory, and outcomes evaluated.

          Results: The patient received nursing care applying all three systems of Orem's theory: (1) Wholly compensatory system during the critical phase when the patient was intubated and unable to perform self-care, with nurses providing comprehensive care including life support, infection control, and complication prevention; (2) Partially compensatory system when the patient's condition improved, promoting patient participation in self-care activities such as pain management and physical therapy; and (3) Supportive-educative system, providing education about the disease, infection prevention, and psychological support. Outcomes showed negative infection results following completion of treatment, no preventable complications during both critical and recovery phases, excellent patient and family cooperation with treatment, and reduced anxiety levels.

          Conclusion: Application of Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory in caring for an immunocompromised patient with monkeypox yielded positive patient outcomes. The adaptation of nursing systems according to the patient's self-care capabilities at each stage of illness enhanced rehabilitation, reduced complications, and improved quality of care.