Chronic Urinary Tract Infections Treatment Case Nursing Essay

Chronic Urinary Tract Infections Treatment Case Nursing Essay RP, a 72-year-old Caucasian female, was brought to the emergency room (E.R) from Hillcrest Adult Foster Care via ambulance. Preadmission report to F-300 stated that she came to E.R confused, lethargic and weak, complaining of acute pain upon urination. She also urinated small amounts ( Upon arrival to F-300 RPs labs revealed significantly lowered thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH), a lowered red blood cell (RBC) count, along with decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit (HH). Her white blood (WBC) count was elevated, as expected with a urinary tract infection (UTI). Primary Diagnosis and Priority Secondary diagnosis The primary medical diagnosis was chronic urinary tract infections, with a secondary diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Patient History RP has a history of chronic UTIs, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease (stage III), and chronic anemia. She has several admissions the past few months related mainly to UTIs and dehydration. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/ETILOGY OF THE PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS AND PRIORITY SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS UTIs are the results of infection, mainly from bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. This leads to a condition referred to as cystitis (inflammation of the bladder). Most common of the UTIs are from infection known as infectious cystitis. A bacterium, the most common cause of infectious cystitis, is from the external urethra, this spreads inwards to the bladder (distal to proximal). Once a bacterium migrates to the bladder and starts the process of growing, it can migrate to other parts of the body (Ignatavicius Workman, 2006). UTIs present with symptoms that include frequency, urgency, retention, burning, foul odor, and incontinence. According to Wikipedia, four stages must be met in order for bacteria to grow. These include an infectious agent, one that must be able to grow, multiply and enter the body. Once we have the agent, the bacteria must find a portal of entry, (how it enters the body). Once in the body it needs an adequate reservoir, a place where organisms can thrive and multiply and the susceptibility of host, how bacteria affects the body after entry. Determents include age, overall health and other co-morbidities of the host and the susceptibility to pathogens. Most UTIs first grow in the perineal area due to irritation; in RPs case this may have been caused by lack of personal hygiene due to being overly fatigued, brought on by her hypothyroidism. Minton (2009) stated, Thyroid is the most important hormone in the body. Because it stimulates the production of cellular energy, production of all other hormones will be negatively impacted when thyroid hormone levels are less than optimal. Every aspect of health is affected by low thyroid function. Hypothyroidism is signaled by fatigue and loss of energy. According to textbook, hypothyroidism is the result of decreased metabolism from low levels of thyroid hormones (THs). Low levels of THs may be a result of several different reasons: thyroid cells may fail to produce sufficient amounts, or the cells themselves are damaged. The patient may not be ingesting enough of the substances needed to make THs, especially iodide and tyrosine. Low levels of THs affect most tissue and organs causing decreased cellular energy. The patient could become confused, lethargic, and have slowing of intellectual functions. ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL IMPACT OF RELEVANT MEDICAL HISTORY ON THE PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS AND PRIORITY SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS RP has a history of chronic UTIs that has caused numerous admits to the hospital over the last few months. UTIs that are left untreated may and can cause damage to the kidneys and start the process of renal failure. Chronic infection of the kidneys causes scar tissue, which decreases the function of the renal system. With renal failure, the body cannot rid itself of certain toxins that may contribute to UTIs. Chronic UTIs may lead to chronic pyelonephritis, repeated upper tract infection of bacteria that migrates from the bladder superior (toward the kidney) to the kidneys. RPs diagnosis of chronic renal failure may be heightened by the chronic UTIs. Hypothyroidism and anemia, that cause fatigue and loss of energy, will discourage you from providing adequate hygiene. This encourages bacterial growth, which may start the chain of events leading up to a UTI. RP resides at an extended care facility that may not have adequate staff to assure that she receives the necessary amounts of iodide and tyrosine needed stimulate TH production. She is also very confused which would decrease her understanding of the importance of proper nutritional intake. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT: CHRONIC URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS And Hypothyroidism A urine sample must be obtained either by a clean catch method or if client unable, by straight catheter method. A catheter method was used on RP, due to her confusion and retention. Urinalysis testing for leukocyte esterase (n=negative) and nitrate (n=none), along with a WBC (n= 0-4) are specifically for diagnosis of a UTIs (Mosbys 2006). Normal urine should appear clear with a yellow tint present (Mosbys 2006). A noticeable smell should not be present in uninfected urine; RPs urine had a pungent odor noted. RPs leukocyte esterase was 3+ and her nitrate was positive. WBCs were to numerous to count. These results determined that RP did have a UTI. Blood work was noted that RPs thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was 0.05 (n=2-10). This confirmed the diagnosis of hypothyroidism. NURSING MANAGEMENT: URINARY TRACT INFECTION Recommended textbook intervention is to monitor for signs of UTIs. This includes, but not limited to: frequency, urgency, dysuria, incontinence, pyuria. In some older adults the only sign may be an increase in mental confusion or frequent, unexplained falls. RP was on Q-4 hour vital sign assessment, paying close attention to any increase in temperature and/or heart rate. The patient remained afebrile throughout admission. Heart rate remained between 80-90 beats per minute. Respiratory rate remained between 16-20 breaths per minute. Due to her confusion, bed alarms and padded side rails were used. She had a high fall risk assessment; therefore fall risk precautions were implemented upon admission. She was placed on strict intake and output (IO), and her fluids were monitored. She was instructed to drink required amount of fluid per day (1500ml). Staff member offered bedside commode every two hours to encouraging voiding. She and family members were informed as to the importance of RP to remain dry. This will limit the environmental factors needed for bacterial growth. RN (preceptor) communicated with adult foster care on the needs of the client after discharge. Lab results were also monitored closely for any change that would indicate worsening infection. PHARMACOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT: URINARY TRACT INFECTION AND HYPOTHYROIDISM Textbook recommends medications that treat bacteria and the promotion of client comfort. Cure is dependent on the antibiotic level achieved in the urine. Long-term antibiotic therapy is recommended for chronic UTIs (Ignatavicius Workman, 2006). RP received, via intravenous therapy (IV), Azactam (antibiotic) per Dr. order, to treat her infection. Paroxetine mesylate (antianxiety agent, antidepressant) 30 mg by mouth daily, used to decrease anxiety. Also given Levothyroxine (hormone) as a thyroid supplement. PROVIDER AND MANAGER ROLE: NURSING CARE PLAN Priority Nursing Diagnosis P Impaired urinary elimination R Incontinence due to urinary tract infection C Acute lower tract pain 7/10 upon urination, Priority Patient Goal The patient will be able to state absence of pain or excessive urination by discharge AEB: Pain upon urination 0/10, Decreased urge to void, Empting bladder completely Three Priority Nursing Interventions The nurse will monitor patient for incomplete emptying of bladder by using bladder scan post void. The nurse will encourage patient to drink water at each meal. The nurse will instruct patient on the signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Evaluation of Progress toward Patient Goal The patient was able to recite some signs of UTIs to nurse. She recognized pain on urination and foul odor as signs of an infection. The patient was reluctant to drink water at any one time. She continued to have incontinent periods, but this was less frequent on day of discharge. The patient partially met the goals put forth for her. PROVIDER AND MANAGER ROLE Member of the discipline and the Role of the Multi-Disciplinary Team As a member of the discipline I was inclined to have verbal interactions with the ER staff before RP had arrived to F-300. Consulted with housekeeping to assure the RPs room was cleaned and ready for admission. Ward clerk assured that tests were ordered. Dietician was consulted to help with nutritional needs. Discharged planner made transportation arrangement to return patient to long care facility. Social worker discussed local community resources of support with the family. Provider of Care Role As provider of care for this patient, I kept this patient cleaned and dry when incontinent. I utilized the fall risk precautions to provided safety. Implemented steps to encourage patient to accept and understand a bladder training routine. Monitored patient labs and reported abnormal results to the doctor. Manager of Care Role As manager of care I evaluated the client for her fall risk and implemented fall risk precautions. Delegated the placement of bed alarms and tabs to the LPN assigned to us. My preceptor and I discussed the possible ways to teach client prevention of developing UTIs. Collaborated with nursing home staff on ways to improve clients care at extended care facility. Growth in the Manager of Care Role In completing these tasks I was able to see the complete picture of the patient. I was educated on the disease process and the effect other co-morbidities had on providing an environment that encourages an infection. In caring for RP I was able to developed and strengthen my delegating skills, learning to rely on others and not solely on myself.

Legal Studies – the Family Law Amendment (Shared Responsibility) Act 2006

The Family Law Amendment (Shared Responsibility) Act 2006 commenced on the first of July 2006 assists in the way that separating parents resolve their disputes involving the best interests of their children. This law is still taking time to make an effect on divorcing and separating parents, as sources show that shared custody arrangements or 50:50 joint custody makes little effect on the children involved in these situations. This was achieved through a major study conducted by Bruce Smyth and Bryan Rodgers who showed that children in shared care are no worse off or no better than those who see the other parent every second weekend for example [Source E]. The aim of the legislation was to change the past 1995 reforms as they failed to achieve the desired impact of separating couples [source A]. The act was created also to encourage parents to share the parenting of their children by allowing them to have equal time with both mother and father and also for the major decisions and responsibilities of the children to be distributed evenly. The law was changed because of the various groups who protested against the past regulations the law provided. The changes included the terminology, facilitation of shared parenting time and the concept that the separated parents both retain parental responsibility [Source A]. The new family law process outlined in the Every Picture Tells a Story report also creates an emphasis on parents coming to agreements in a ‘parenting plan’. There was also a proposal to create a ‘Family Tribunal’, which was where the separating parents could work their issues with consultation and counseling without the invasive use of the courts. The government also put forward $400 million to be spent on 65 family relationship centres for counseling couples [Source B]. Groups who have been against the Family Law Amendment are law academics, judges, women’s legal services, and single mother groups, [source D] because of the issue of abuse from their spouses after the separation. The act sets out that parents are to share the responsibility of the children between them, with the exclusion of abusive spouses. This therefore results in parents having to consult each other about their children’s education, religious and cultural upbringing, health, change of name, and also place of residence [Source A]. Also included in the act is that counseling would be offered to parents in assisting them to reach an agreement between both parties, and child support doesn’t have to be given until six weeks after the parents have separated. The Act only previously allowing grandparents contact through applications however rights have been elevated and the relationship between the children and grandparents are taken directly into consideration when making the arrangements in the parenting plan. The presumption of equal shared responsibility in the amendment means that both parents have an equal role in making decisions about the major choices involving the children; for example what school they will attend. The presumption however does not apply to a parent who has engaged in any abuse, violence or neglect towards the child, and was not included in the previous Act. With this the Act strives to provide the parents with equal shared responsibility which means the child spends a reasonably even amount of time with each parent (if it is in the best interest of the child). The main issue of the legislation is the increase in funding necessary for the Act to go ahead, as the proposals put forward for the committee, family centres, and other programs require a great deal of money to be established. Tax payers are forced to contribute more so that these can be provided, however in saying this establishing the inquisitorial tribunal creates a more level playing field for separating partners, particularly if one party cannot afford private legal representation [Source A]. In excluding legal representation, which is what happens in this process, creates a lesser need for lawyers to be involved in family matters, therefore those representing families will no longer be needed. According to the National Association of Community Legal Centres they suggest that the new family law and processes â€Å"may be harmful to children† [Source B]. Compulsory mediation may force separated parents to communicate and associate with their former abusive partners, who may blackmail or force that parent to agree to an arrangement that benefits the abuser. This leads to a lifetime of fear and anticipation of more abusive from the former partner. According to the legislation, if a report or suspicion of abuse has arisen, the mediation will not go forward nor will it agree to unsafe parenting arrangements. While some children benefit from the equal shared parenting arrangements, it doesn’t mean that some are better or worse off than others. Joint physical custody has been found to be workable only in a minority of separations where parents have freely chosen the arrangement. The cases in which the shared parenting has generally worked is when there is no record of abuse or conflict and when there is commitment from both parents. [Source C]. Throughout this whole process the mediation is voluntary, and can stop at any time as the couples wish. The parties have access to legal advice, either during the mediation or before signing any mediated agreement [Source B]. There are many financial problems with this Act, as separated parents have to pay for the children independently and cannot find stability with their finances in order to pay for schooling, health and so forth. There is also the major issue that is domestic violence. The Act reinforced a fine for making false allegations about abuse and therefore some parents were pressured into making parental agreements that involved the abuser. This also made some victims too scared to tell courts about abuse or violence directed at their children [Source F]. This law is affective, however could be revised in order to benefit the parents. The financial problems that are caused by this law are unavoidable for some families, as one parent or both may struggle to afford to make ends meet. The court could evaluate each parent’s financial status and the ability of them to be economically safe in order to enable them to be able to raise the children effectively. However in saying this, the court should not take children off one parent if they are not capable to pay for the child, especially if the other parent is reportedly an abuser. Abusive parents should be constantly monitored whilst mediating with the other parent (if the victim wants mediation) and the child should have a say in which parent they think is able to look after them. Abusive spouses should not be allowed any contact with the victim while proceedings are happening, so that they do not coerce the other parent into an unfair parenting agreement. The abused parent should also be supervised during this period so that it is seen that they are not influenced or blackmailed by the abuser. The Act should focus more on the child’s need than the parents. While both parents have equal shared responsibility, the child should be involved in the parenting agreements and have a fair say in what happens to them. It is argued that the Act focuses more on the parent’s rights than the children’s needs, and that the reforms favor fathers more than mothers [Source F]. In conclusion, it is believed that the Act is not effective however has improved the rights of equal responsibility between parents. It is said that shared care is proving successful for many parents, [Source E] however parents are the only beneficiaries from this because the arrangement aids them more than the child, as the Act is more in the parents favor than the children’s. The Act should be revaluated so that it is beneficial to all parties.

Widowhood Case Study

A quick review of the case study suggests the following central issues: The impact that a chronic illness has on a marital relationship, and the burdens of taking care of the spouse, the initial stages of grief and bereavement after their passing, the transition from having a long term partner, to widowhood, and the likely outcomes that the subject will experience during her transition from married, to widowhood, to single-hood. Impact of Chronic Illness on Marital Relationships Chronic illness in anyone family can have many impacts, not only on the person who is ill, but on the family and care givers as well. More importantly, it can affect children and spouses’ emotionally and physically. In Clara’s case, there is a very high possibility that her relationship with her husband experienced a considerable change in relationship and sexual satisfaction. There have been studies done in the past that state, â€Å"Although spouses of chronic pain patients showed no more physical symptoms than spouses of diabetics, they reported significantly more pain symptoms that were related to elevated levels of depressed mood. † (Herta Florb, 2002) The depression felt because of her husbands chronic illness, is likely the reason why she pulled away from her family, and friends. She likely did not want them to see her in that state, and wanted them to think that she was strong, and could handle it. However, other parts of the studies have indicated that â€Å"not only is chronic pain associated with problems in the marital relationship but heightened distress and physical symptoms in spouses as well. † (Herta Florb, 2002) The effects are not so much the reality of a chronic pain problem, but instead a manner for paitents and spouses to cope with the situation. Burdens of care giving and the initial stages of grief and bereavement This leads us to the topic of the burden of caregiving. There is a large impact on ones emotional and physical well being. Women’s greater focus on the emotional side of the caring relationship and on reaching standards of what they consider good care, †¦this is â€Å"not to be confused with how much a spouse cares about her partner† (Connidis, 2010, p. 88). In the case of Clara, there is an assumption that she cared deeply for her husband, but was focused on his needs, and taking care of him, and this may have put great strain, on their marriage, because she may have felt a sense of disdain in the final days of her husbands life. Possibly blamed him for her being out of touch with her family, and friends, and not having circle of people around her to help take care of her during the initial stages of grief and bereavement once her husband passes. There are generally 5 main stages of grief that someone feels when dealing with a loss, however when going through a loss as large as that of a spouse, it is more likely that one will go through each stage in a more defined way. Shortly after the death, there is the Numbness & denial – this is the feeling of shock and disbelief. Even though in Clara’s case she knew that this day would come, she still likely will have gone through this stage. The next stage is yearning & anger – this happens when the main shock has worn off, and one would long for the lost loved one, and one may even feel a sense of anger and thinking that there could have been something more that coul dhave been done. Next comes emotional despair & sadness- this is mostly a long period of tru bereavement. The point when the reality that that person, in this case Clara’s husband is truly gone. This brings one to the reorganization stage – this is when the widow will earn how to deal with practical businss of living, without your loved one at your side. This is also when the sun may start to shine a little more each day in ones life, and also a time when outside sources of support will likely be reeived with open arms. Lastly is the stage of letting go & moving on. This is often when the sadness starts to fade into the background, and new interests take on importance. Experience of widowhood In the case of Clara, widowhood was not likely sudden, as it often is for elderly people. She acted as a caregiver for her husband who had a chronic illness, and likely was warned by doctors, family, and friends, to prepare her for his passing. Since Clara was restricted, from family and friends, by caring for her husband, she was likely the sole caregiver, her husband’s passing although saddening, may also have been seen by her as relief. â€Å"Caring for a departed spouse allows some widowed persons to anticipate their loss and to feel some relief in their death† (Connidis, 2010, p. 106). This relief may be seen as the beginning of her transition to single life. Transition into widowhood Becoming widowed can be a difficult and sometimes devastating life transition. â€Å"Because women remain much more likely than men to be widowed, widowhood is often considered a women’s issue,† (Connidis, 2010, p. 108). Based on psychological studeies that have been done, the initial stage of bereavment, can last anywhere from two to four years. This is generally seen as a period of mourning, and can be â€Å"characterized initlaly by profound psychological disorganization† (Connidis, 2010, p. 08) Often times, and possibly in Clara’s case, this is also an opportunity to rebuild relationships that may have been hindered during the state of spousal care, by leaning on family and friends during the emotional pain, grief, and loss, as well as slowly taking part in groups of people who had experienced similar transitions in their lives. A great defenition given by a widow is this: â€Å"Joan Didion (2005) describes the year after her husband’s death as one of magical thinking during which she felt invisible and understood only by others who were in the same situation. † (Connidis, 2010, P. 09) Outcomes Clara like other widows and widowers will experience a great influx of emotions and changes after the passing of her husband. Based on conversations that I personally have had with counselors who focus on loss, they encourage people to broaden their social circles again, once they have come out of the fog of the loss of their loved one. In many cases, family and â€Å"friends emerge as important network members in widowhood†¦widows are more likely than the married to consider a friend both a confidant and a companion, and friends occupy a larger portion of these networks among widowed persons. (Connidis, 2010, p. 114) As for Clara, perhaps her and her husband had children that had pulled away because of the long term illness of their dad and they may now be spending more time with their mother. If children are in the picture, Clara now has time to spend with her grandchildren perhaps. She may go out and join social groups, such as knitting circles, church groups, exercise groups for seniors, or even take on a volunteering position. These are all acts to assist her in getting out of the house. Assuming that Clara is now living in a large house all alone, perhaps she will move into a facility for seniors, where she can have her own apartment type living quarters, but also where there are activities that she can partake in with other widows, and widowers. Often when a parent becomes widowed, they will take up residence with the children; this will often be seen as â€Å"the parent helping the child out†, not the other way around. In Clara’s case, because she lives far away from her family, there is a high possibility that she will sell the home that her and her husband had resided in, and re locate so that she can be closer to her family. This will allow her to reconnect with her children, and grandchildren. This may however be a very hard move for her to endure, as she will be leaving behind friends that she may have had where her and her husband had lived. However, moving to a new place, with new people, and new activities will act as a fresh start for Clara. This could be a while new life for her to live, even at the age of 80. Many people still have lots of gumption in them, at that age, and are still looking for companionship, and to be loved. As can be found on a website for seniors, â€Å"The sex need to some people is romance, companionship, and closeness–often the need for actual sex is quite minimal. In other people the need is quite strong. When we lose our spouse, we lose our sexual partner and our feelings can be anything from the desire to shun sex for the rest of our lives to powerful needs, and anything in-between. Sexual feelings after being widowed are quite common and the feelings should not make us feel guilty† (Diehm, 2000) In closing, nothing can prepare anyone for the shock and grief of widowhood, even when we know it is impending. One of the myths of mourning is that is has an ending point, and that if we wait long enough, it will stop hurting. Unfortunately it doesn’t. As we have discussed in this paper, it is important to work through the various phases of grief and it will eventually get better, and we no longer allow it to paralyze us. The important thing is to live our lives to the fullest, and enjoy each day knowing that the person we have lost is with us in our hearts, enjoying each day that we live in their memory.

An Analysis of Eudora Weltys A Worn Path Essay - 865 Words

A Worn Path – An Analysis The short story A Worn Path by Eudora Welty, is a descriptive story of a grandmothers difficult journey, for a grandson she loves. Her devotion to her grandson and wanting to provide him with a better lifestyle, was her motivation to overcome these trials. On this trip, Phoenix Jackson, the grandmother, struggles against old age, nature, and reality. Phoenix Jackson was certainly a dedicated old lady. She refused to give up, despite the odds against her, to help her grandson. Her grandson was very sick, and needed certain medication to live. After traveling miles through wilderness, barbed wire, thorn bushes, and being confronted by a white man with a gun, she still persisted on her†¦show more content†¦She expresses her joy in accomplishing this feat by saying, I wasnt as old as I thought(213). The reader may notice that throughout the book Phoenix Jackson is referred to as Old Phoenix, Old being in capital letters suggest that its more than just an adjective describing her but rather a part of her. Even when she arrives into town, she needs another ladies assistance in tying her shoes, because she cannot do it herself. And the struggle continues, as even when shes at the hospital, she forgets the reason for her journey momentarily. Along with struggling against her old age Phoenix Jackson had many elements of nature holding her back from helping her grandson. She had to travel very far to reach the hospital for his medicine. On her way she encountered many elements of wildlife, of which she scared out of her path. Her dress was constantly caught in the brush and was in danger of being ruined as she passed a barbed wire fence. This also took place during Christmas time when it more than likely was extremely cold out side. But Phoenixs desire to help her grandson, and save his life, while also preserving some life of her own, helped her strive in completing this trip. When one thinks about the reasoning for this journey, many conclusions can be made. From the content provided in the story and the readers knowledge of the time period it was written in, we know that this was during a period of time when it wasShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Eudora Weltys A Worn Path905 Words   |  4 Pagespeople to go out of their way, and when they have nothing left, it makes them continue. On the other hand, it may be to overcoming that it blinds the person, and he or she does not know the full consist of the situations he or she is in. In Eudora Weltys A Worn Path, Phoenix Jackson is perceived as determined and loving due to her actions, yet at the same time, she seems innocent and at loss of the situation she is in. Thought the story, Jackson is portrayed as being a determined person. Many obstaclesRead MoreSymbolic Source In A Worn Path by Eudora Welty1287 Words   |  6 Pagesexample the colors white, red and blue symbolize freedom in the United States, it also represents the United States flag. Symbols are also used in movies like the hunger games catching fire; their symbol is a mocking bird with an arrow on it. A Worn Path is about a long walk through the woods an old lady named Phoenix Jackson has to go through every time her grandson runs out of medicine. A long time ago her grandson swallowed lye that ruined his throat, the medicine is the only thing that relivesRead MoreLiterary Analysis Of A Worn Path1221 Words   |  5 PagesOvercoming Obstacles: A Literary Analysis of â€Å"A Worn Path† Thesis: â€Å"A Worn Path† by Eudora Welty is one of the best short stories to incorporate different symbolic representations of determination and the will to live. I. Introduction II. Phoenix A. Definition B. Characteristics III. Natural symbolism A. Steep hill B. Thorns of bush IV. Perceived Racism A. Imagined cake B. White hunter V. Arrival in Natchez A. Nurses’ comments BRead MoreDecoding The Symbolism Used in A Worn Path by Eudora Welty1276 Words   |  6 PagesToday we will be talking about the different literary references used throughout Eudora Welty’s â€Å"A Worn Path†. I will explain and decode different techniques used by the author throughout her story. The story is of an old southern African American woman, named Phoenix Jackson, making her way into to town to pick up her grandsons medication from the doctor’s office. But this is no normal old woman. She cannot see and is picking her way with a cane to make her way across a barrage of obstaclesRead MoreNever Give Up: a Character Analysis of Phoenix from Weltys A Worn Path977 Words   |  4 PagesCharacter Analysis of Phoenix from Welty’s â€Å"A Worn Path† By STUDENT NAME Professor NAME CLASS NAME DATE Outline Thesis statement: In â€Å"A Worn Path† by Eudora Welty, Phoenix Jackson displays extraordinary perseverance in the face of difficulty, which ultimately allows her to accomplish her goal. I. Personal obstacles A. Body B. Mind II. Physical obstacles A. Nature B. Society Never Give Up: A Character Analysis of Phoenix from Welty’s â€Å"A Worn Path† AlthoughRead MoreA Worn Path: Struggle For Racial Equality Essay1522 Words   |  7 PagesA Worn Path: Struggle for Racial Equality In A Worn Path, a short story by Eudora Welty, the main character, an old colored woman named Phoenix, slowly but surely makes her way down a worn path through the woods. Throughout her journey, she runs into many obstacles such as a thorny bush and a hunter. She overcomes these obstacles and continues with her travels. She finally reaches her destination, the doctor’s office, where she gets medicine for her sick grandson back home. Many critics haveRead MoreA Worn Path: Struggle for Racial Equality1550 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"A Worn Path†: Struggle for Racial Equality In â€Å"A Worn Path†, a short story by Eudora Welty, the main character, an old colored woman named Phoenix, slowly but surely makes her way down a â€Å"worn path† through the woods. Throughout her journey, she runs into many obstacles such as a thorny bush and a hunter. She overcomes these obstacles and continues with her travels. She finally reaches her destination, the doctor’s office, where she gets medicine for her sick grandson back home. Many critics haveRead MoreEudora Welty s A Worn Path956 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction James Saunders wrote an interesting article â€Å"’A Worn Path’ The Eternal Quest of Welty’s Phoenix Jackson† (The Southern Literary Journal 25.1, Fall 1992: p62-73.) that not only analyzed Eudora Welty’s â€Å"A Worn Path† (The Collected Works of Eudora Welty) from his perspective but also included the perspectives of other authors which makes his article an excellent source for interpretations of ‘A Worn Path’. Summary Saunders article summarizes Phoenix Jackson as a symbol of the ChristianRead MoreA Worn Path By Eudora Welty1707 Words   |  7 PagesFebruary 2016 A Worn Path In the Eudora Welty’s ‘‘A Worn Path’’, there is a distinct description of characters that live in the era of segregation and the great depression. Because Welty is a native of the south, this story is based from the experiences during her life. Her struggles are relived in the characters of not just â€Å"A Worn Path† but also a lot of her other stories. She uses hidden messages in her stories and includes deep meaning in the simplest of characters and instances. Welty’s use of theRead MoreA Worn Path By Eudora Welty944 Words   |  4 PagesWhat reaches would you go to in order to aid the ones you love? In â€Å"A Worn Path,† by Eudora Welty, the reader is taken on Phoenix Jackson’s, the main character’s, journey to the doctor’s office to obtain the medications needed for her ill grandson. Having to commute in such difficult conditions, Phoenix endures through the dense and tiresome woods, stretching from th e countryside to the town. After persevering through the long journey to her destination, Phoenix arrives at the building and receives