A nurse is caring for a client with dementia. What measure should the nurse employ when communicating with the client?

Question

A) Give simple, one-step commands.
B) Use questions to assist reasoning.
C) Wear a nametag for identification.
D) Always verbalize all communications.

Answer 1

A
Feedback:
The nurse should use simple, one-step commands because the client's brain cannot process multiple steps. Too many commands add to confusion, frustration, and fear. It may not be possible for the client with dementia to be able to read the nametag and so the nurse should identify himself or herself. Questions should be avoided; the client cannot process or think through questions because those abilities are lost. The nurse need not always verbalize all communications. Nonverbal body language might be the only thing the client can perceive.