Growth and Development Q 20
The nurse is caring for an agitated older client with Alzheimer’s disease. Which nursing intervention would most likely calm the client?
A. Playing a radio
B. Turning the lights out
C. Putting an arm around the client’s waist
D. Encouraging group participation
Correct Answer: C. Putting an arm around the client’s waist.
Nursing interventions for the client with Alzheimer’s disease who is angry, frustrated, or hostile include decreasing environmental stimuli, approaching the client calmly and with assurance, not demanding anything from the client, and distracting the client. For the nurse to reach out, touch, hold a hand, put an arm around the waist, or in some way maintain physical contact is important.
Option A: Playing a radio may increase stimuli. Noise and crowds are usually excessive for the sensory neurons and can increase interference. Television and radio programs may be overstimulating and may increase agitation.
Option B: Turning the lights out may produce more agitation. Limit sensory stimuli and independent decision-making. This decreases frustration and distractions from the environment. Decreasing the stress of making a choice helps to promote security.
Option D: The client with Alzheimer’s disease would not be a candidate for group work if the client is agitated. Provide an opportunity for social interaction, but do not force interaction. Forcing interaction usually results in confusion, agitation, and hostility.