Alzheimer’s Delirium and Dementia Q 4
Which of the following outcome criteria is appropriate for the client with dementia?
A. The client will return to an adequate level of self-functioning.
B. The client will learn new coping mechanisms to handle anxiety.
C. The client will seek out resources in the community for support.
D. The client will follow an established schedule for activities of daily living.
Correct Answer: D. The client will follow an established schedule for activities of daily living.
Following established activity schedules is a realistic expectation for clients with dementia. Maintain a regular daily schedule routine to prevent problems that may result from thirst, hunger, lack of sleep, or inadequate exercise. If the needs of a patient with AD are not met, it may cause the patient to become agitated and anxious. Predictable behavior is less threatening to the patient and does not tax limited ability to function with ADLs.
Option A: Allow the patient the freedom to sit in a chair near the window, utilize books and magazines as desired. This validates the patient’s sense of reality and assists the patient in differentiating between day and night. Respect for the patient’s personal space allows the patient to exert some control.
Option B: Allow hoarding and wandering in a controlled environment, as appropriate or within acceptable limitations. Increases patient’s security and decreases hostility and agitation by permitting behaviors that are difficult to prevent, to be allowed within the confines of a safe supervised environment.
Option C: Instruct family members in the disease process, what can be expected, and assist with providing a list of community resources for support. Once diagnosis of AD is made, the family should be prepared to make long-term plans in order to discuss problems before they arise. Choices for resuscitation, legal competency, and guardianship including financial responsibility needed to be addressed. The care of a person with AD is expensive and time-consuming, as well as energy-draining and emotionally devastating for the family. Community resources can help delay the need for placement in a long-term care facility and may help defray some costs.