Which intervention is appropriate to use for patients with either ...

[jeatrice]

Which intervention is appropriate to use for patients with either delirium or dementia?
 
  a. Speak in a loud, firm voice.
  b. Touch the patient before speaking.
  c. Reintroduce the health care worker at each contact.
  d. When the patient becomes aggressive, use physical restraint instead of medication.

Question 2

A patient with dementia no longer recognizes family members. The family asks how long it will be before their family member recognizes them when they visit. What is the nurse's best reply?
 
  a. Your family member will never again be able to identify you.
  b. I think that is a question the health care provider should answer.
  c. One never knows. Consciousness fluctuates in persons with dementia.
  d. It is disappointing when someone you love no longer recognizes you.

[IRincones]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Short-term memory is often impaired in patients with delirium and dementia. Reorientation to staff is often necessary with each contact to minimize misperceptions, reduce anxiety level, and secure cooperation. Loud voices may be frightening or sound angry. Speaking before touching prevents the patient from feeling threatened. Physical restraint is not appropriate; the least restrictive measure should be used.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Therapeutic communication techniques can assist family members to come to terms with the losses and irreversibility dementia imposes on both the loved one and themselves. Two of the incorrect responses close communication. The nurse should take the opportunity to foster communication. Consciousness does not fluctuate in patients with dementia.