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Dementia & Cognitive Impairment

When working with residents who have a diagnosis of dementia, you should:

From CNA Exam Texas Practice Test

Answer choices

  1. A write everything down for the resident so the resident doesn't a
  2. B approach the resident from the front when you want to speak to them
  3. C correct the resident when the resident states the year is 1950 a
  4. D offer the resident five choices of clothing options so the reside

Correct answer: B. approach the resident from the front when you want to speak to them

Clinical Rationale

Approach the resident from the front when you want to speak to them.

Approaching residents with dementia from the front is crucial as it helps to establish eye contact and ensures that they can see and hear you clearly, which aids in communication and reduces potential confusion or fear.

A) Write everything down for the resident so the resident doesn't forget.

While writing things down can be helpful, it may not always be effective for residents with dementia. They may have difficulty processing written information or remembering it, which could lead to frustration or misunderstanding rather than assisting them.

C) Correct the resident when the resident states the year is 1950.

Correcting a resident with dementia can lead to agitation and confusion, as they may not understand or remember the context of the correction. Instead of fostering a positive interaction, it can create distress and a sense of failure for the resident.

D) Offer the resident five choices of clothing options so the resident can choose.

Providing multiple choices can overwhelm residents with dementia, making it difficult for them to make a decision. Simplifying choices or offering limited options is often more effective and can help reduce anxiety during decision-making.

Conclusion

Effective communication with residents diagnosed with dementia is essential for their comfort and understanding. Approaching from the front respects their need for visual and auditory clarity, fostering a sense of safety and engagement. Other strategies, such as writing information down or correcting them, may inadvertently lead to confusion or frustration. Understanding the nuances of communication is vital in supporting residents with dementia and enhancing their quality of life.

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