An older adult is admitted to a geriatric unit in the hospital. The nurse in the emergency department states that the client is oriented to one only. Which of the following actions should the admitting nurse perform? (Select all that apply.)

A) Have a conversation with the client about challenges to cognitive functioning.
B) Orient the client to the room, unit, and plan of care.
C) Post a calendar with dates crossed off.
D) Reassess orientation status.
E) Repeat orientation as needed.


Ans: B, C, D, E
The nurse understands that the older adult may take time to orient to new surroundings and may need to be given cues to assist them. Temporary memory impairment because of acute medical problems may impact the orientation questions. Asking the client about his or her subjective cognitive challenges may yield meaningful information, but this does not necessarily gauge orientation.

Nursing

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