CCW Mental Health & Cognitive Support Flashcards

A client with dementia becomes agitated when it is time to take medication. Which approach is most effective?

Answer: Use a calm voice, simple instructions, and offer a brief distraction before trying again

A calm, patient approach with simple language and brief distraction reduces agitation in dementia clients and improves medication acceptance.

Which behavior change in a client with dementia should a CCW report to a nurse immediately?

Answer: A sudden increase in confusion or agitation not typical of their baseline

A sudden change from the client's usual behavior pattern may indicate a new medical issue such as a urinary tract infection, stroke, or medication reaction.

What is the goal of reality orientation for clients with mild cognitive impairment?

Answer: To gradually reintroduce the client to current time, place, and person to reduce confusion

Reality orientation gently reminds clients of current facts about time and place to help reduce confusion and maintain cognitive function.

A client tells a CCW they have been feeling hopeless and have thought about ending their life. What is the immediate priority?

Answer: Stay with the client and report the disclosure to the nurse or supervisor immediately

Suicidal statements are a psychiatric emergency; the CCW must stay with the client and immediately notify a nurse or supervisor.

Which technique is most appropriate when communicating with a client who has moderate dementia?

Answer: Use short, simple sentences and allow extra time for responses

Short, clear sentences with adequate response time accommodate the slower cognitive processing associated with moderate dementia.

What does the term 'sundowning' refer to in clients with dementia?

Answer: Increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness in the late afternoon or evening

Sundowning describes the worsening of dementia-related symptoms such as confusion and agitation that typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening.