Substance Abuse and Abuse Q 70
A student nurse is caring for a 75-year-old client who is very confused. The student’s communication tools should include:
A. Written directions for bathing.
B. Speaking very loudly.
C. Gentle touch while guiding ADLs (activities of daily living).
D. Flat facial expression.
Correct Answer: C. Gentle touch while guiding ADLs (activities of daily living).
Nonverbal, gentle touch is an important tool here. Providing appropriate forms of touch to reinforce caring feelings. Because tactile contacts vary considerably among individuals, families, and cultures, the nurse must be sensitive to the differences in attitudes and practices of clients and self.
Option A: Assess the patient for reversible or irreversible dementia, causes, ability to interpret environment, intellectual thought processes, memory loss, disturbances with orientation, behavior, and socialization. Determines type and extent of dementia to establish a plan of care to enhance cognition and emotional functioning at optimal levels. Assist with establishing cues and reminders for patient’s assistance. Assists patients with early AD to remember location of articles and facilitates some orientation.
Option B: Avoid or terminate emotionally charged situations or conversations. Avoid anger and expectation of the patient to remember or follow instructions. Do not expect more than the patient is capable of doing. Catastrophic emotional responses are prompted by task failure when the patient feels expected to perform beyond ability and becomes frustrated and angry. Responding calmly to the patient validates feelings and causes less stress.
Option D: Maintain consistent scheduling with allowances for patient’s specific needs, and avoid frustrating situations and overstimulation. Prevents patient agitation, erratic behaviors, and combative reactions. Scheduling may need revision to show respect for the patient’s sense of worth and to facilitate completion of tasks.