Behavioral Symptom Management Flashcards

Which factor is MOST important to assess when a person with dementia develops new-onset agitation?

Answer: Potential underlying physical causes such as pain, infection, or constipation

New-onset behavioral changes often signal an underlying physical problem; ruling out pain, infection, urinary retention, or constipation is the essential first step.

Sensory-based interventions such as aromatherapy, hand massage, and weighted blankets are theorized to reduce agitation in dementia primarily by:

Answer: Activating the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce anxiety and arousal

Tactile and olfactory sensory inputs that are calming are thought to activate the parasympathetic 'rest and digest' response, reducing physiological and behavioral arousal.

A certified dementia practitioner notices that a resident's agitation consistently peaks between 4 and 6 PM. The MOST evidence-based intervention to trial first is:

Answer: Scheduling a meaningful, engaging activity at 3:30 PM before symptoms begin

Proactively scheduling a preferred meaningful activity before the identified peak agitation window can prevent sundowning by providing structure, engagement, and reduced anxiety.

In the context of dementia care, 'responsive behaviors' is a preferred term because it:

Answer: Frames behaviors as meaningful responses to unmet needs or environment, reducing stigma

The term 'responsive behaviors' acknowledges that the person is responding to something in their environment or internal state, shifting focus from managing symptoms to understanding and addressing needs.

A care team wants to reduce the use of antipsychotics for a resident with dementia. Which program is nationally recognized in US nursing homes for supporting this goal?

Answer: HAND in HAND (CMS Nursing Home Training Program)

The CMS HAND in HAND training program was specifically designed to help nursing home staff reduce antipsychotic use through person-centered, dementia-specific care approaches.

A person with dementia repeatedly calls out loudly throughout the night. After ruling out pain and physical needs, the BEST nonpharmacological approach is:

Answer: Engaging the person with a comforting, familiar auditory stimulus such as a preferred radio program

A familiar, comforting auditory stimulus such as preferred music or a quiet radio program can reduce nighttime calling out by providing sensory reassurance and reducing isolation.

Which of the following best describes the 'unmet needs model' of behavioral symptoms in dementia?

Answer: Behaviors communicate unmet physical, psychological, or social needs that the person cannot express verbally

The unmet needs model, foundational to dementia care, proposes that behavioral symptoms are the person's attempt to communicate needs — such as pain, hunger, loneliness, or fear — that they can no longer express in words.