An older client with dementia who is refusing to allow an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) bathe her is becoming increasingly agitated and stating the UAP wants to hurt her and tie her up. Which approach should the nurse use with the client?
Reduce the client's interaction with others during the day.
Use distraction and therapeutic communication skills.
Awaken the client earlier for daily morning care.
Clarify reality with the client about delusional thoughts.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Reducing the client's interaction with others during the day is not the most appropriate approach in this situation. It may lead to increased social isolation and worsen the client's agitation and delusions. It does not address the client's emotional distress.
Choice B rationale:
Using distraction and therapeutic communication skills is the most suitable approach for a client with dementia who is experiencing agitation and delusional thoughts. Distraction techniques can help redirect the client's focus away from distressing thoughts, and therapeutic communication skills, such as active listening and validation, can help the client feel understood and supported.
Choice C rationale:
Awakening the client earlier for daily morning care may further disrupt the client's sleep patterns and worsen agitation. It does not address the underlying issue of delusional thoughts and the client's emotional distress.
Choice D rationale:
Clarifying reality with the client about delusional thoughts can be counterproductive in dementia care. The client's cognitive impairment may make it challenging for them to understand or accept the clarification, leading to increased frustration and agitation. It is essential to use a more empathetic and therapeutic approach.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Suicidal ideation is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a symptom or thought process associated with various mental health conditions.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Suicidal ideation can occur in individuals of all age groups, not just in older adults. It is not limited to any specific age demographic.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Suicidal ideation does not always involve a detailed plan for self-harm. It can range from fleeting thoughts of self-harm to more detailed plans, but the severity can vary widely.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is accurate. Suicidal ideation can be a symptom of various underlying mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and others. It involves thoughts of self-harm or suicide, which may or may not be accompanied by specific plans.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ask the wife to stop and assess the client's swallowing reflex. Rationale: While assessing the client's swallowing reflex is important, the immediate priority is to provide hydration and comfort to the client, especially if the client is tearful and attempting to drink water. The nurse should assist the wife in providing small sips of water while being cautious and observing the client's ability to swallow safely.
Choice B rationale:
Give the wife a straw to help facilitate the client's drinking. Rationale: Giving the wife a straw may be helpful, but it does not address the client's immediate need for hydration and assistance with drinking. The nurse should actively assist in providing water to the client while assessing the client's ability to swallow safely.
Choice C rationale:
Assist the wife and carefully give the client small sips of water. Rationale: This is the correct answer. The nurse's immediate priority should be to assist the client with hydration. Providing small sips of water while being cautious and observing the client's ability to swallow safely is an appropriate action. This can help address the client's immediate needs for comfort and hydration.
Choice D rationale:
Obtain thickening powder before providing any more fluids. Rationale: While thickening powder may be necessary for clients with swallowing difficulties, it may cause unnecessary delay in providing hydration to the client in distress. The nurse should first provide water and assess the client's swallowing abilities. If thickened liquids are indicated, they can be administered later as per the healthcare provider's orders.
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