A nurse in a long-term care facility is assessing a client who has dementia. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a risk for this client?
Hallways are long distances
The room has an area rug
The bed is in a low position
Outside doors have locks
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hallways are long distances:
Long hallways can be challenging for individuals with dementia due to their potential mobility issues, disorientation, and decreased ability to navigate. Dementia often affects spatial awareness and can lead to confusion, making it difficult for patients to find their way back to their rooms or common areas. Long distances increase the risk of falls and disorientation.
B. The room has an area rug:
Area rugs can present tripping hazards for anyone, especially for individuals with mobility issues, balance problems, or cognitive impairments like dementia. Patients might trip on the edges of the rug, leading to falls and injuries.
C. The bed is in the low position:
Having the bed in a low position is generally considered a safety measure, especially for patients at risk of falls. However, for a patient with dementia, it might be important to strike a balance. Beds that are too low can be difficult for individuals with dementia to get in and out of, potentially leading to falls. It's important to assess the patient's ability to safely get in and out of bed.
D. Outside doors have locks:
Locks on outside doors are essential for the safety of individuals with dementia. Dementia patients are prone to wandering, which can lead them to dangerous situations if they leave the facility unsupervised. Locks on outside doors help prevent wandering, ensuring the patients stay within the secure confines of the facility.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Paranoia:
Paranoia involves unfounded beliefs that others are plotting against, persecuting, or harming the individual. It is not directly related to the client's statement about bodily sensations.
B. A somatic delusion:
This is the correct choice. A somatic delusion is a false belief related to the body. In this case, the client believes that their heart exploded and blood is draining out, which is a somatic delusion involving bodily functions and sensations.
C. Concrete thinking:
Concrete thinking refers to a literal and straightforward way of thinking without the ability to interpret abstract or metaphorical language. While the client's statement is literal, it is not an example of concrete thinking. Concrete thinking would involve an inability to understand figurative language, which is not the case here.
D. A visual hallucination:
Visual hallucinations involve seeing things that are not present. The client's statement does not describe a visual experience but rather a false belief about bodily sensations, indicating a somatic delusion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Assess the need for physical restraints:
Assessing the need for physical restraints is not the first action to take in this situation. Physical restraints should only be considered as a last resort when there is an immediate threat to the patient or others. It's essential to attempt verbal de-escalation techniques and other non-coercive interventions before considering physical restraints.
B. Discuss the purpose of the medication with the client:
Discussing the purpose of the medication is an important step, as it can help the client understand why they are being asked to take it. However, it may not be the first action to take, especially if the client is highly agitated or manic. Attempting verbal de-escalation techniques, such as calming communication and active listening, should precede discussing the medication's purpose.
C. Stop the newly licensed nurse from administering the medication:
Stopping the newly licensed nurse from administering the medication without addressing the situation directly doesn't resolve the issue. It's important to equip the nurse with appropriate communication skills to handle the situation effectively. Preventing the administration of the medication is not the primary step; it's more about helping the nurse manage the situation appropriately.
D. Demonstrate how to verbally de-escalate the situation:
This is the recommended first action. Demonstrating verbal de-escalation techniques is crucial when dealing with an agitated or manic patient. The nurse manager can model effective communication strategies to help the newly licensed nurse manage the situation without resorting to physical interventions or restraints. Effective verbal de-escalation can lead to a more peaceful resolution and, ideally, the patient's acceptance of the medication without confrontation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.