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Dementia & Cognitive Impairment

How can the nurse aide BEST help a client who is confused and disoriented?

From Free CNA Skills Test Practice pdf

Answer choices

  1. A Restrain all extremities.
  2. B Isolate the client from others.
  3. C Talk about the client's frustrations.
  4. D Maintain a familiar environment.

Correct answer: D. Maintain a familiar environment.

Clinical Rationale

Maintain a familiar environment.

Creating a familiar environment helps to reduce confusion and disorientation for clients, as it provides stability and comfort that can ease anxiety. By surrounding the client with recognizable objects and routines, the nurse aide can promote a sense of security and orientation.

A) Restrain all extremities.

Restraining a client's extremities can lead to increased agitation and feelings of helplessness. This approach may worsen confusion and disorientation rather than alleviate it, as it removes the client's autonomy and can contribute to further emotional distress.

B) Isolate the client from others.

Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and confusion, as social interaction often plays a key role in reorienting individuals. Keeping the client isolated may hinder their ability to engage with familiar faces and routines, which are crucial for their mental well-being.

C) Talk about the client's frustrations.

While it is important to acknowledge a client's feelings, focusing on their frustrations may amplify their confusion and distress. Instead, it is more beneficial to redirect their attention to familiar topics or activities that can help ground them and provide comfort.

Conclusion

When assisting a confused and disoriented client, maintaining a familiar environment is the most effective strategy. This approach not only helps in reducing anxiety but also facilitates orientation and comfort, allowing the client to feel safer and more secure. In contrast, the other options may lead to increased agitation and confusion, ultimately hindering the client's ability to regain their sense of self.

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