CNA Care for Residents with Cognitive Impairment 2

Question 1

A resident with dementia becomes increasingly agitated in the late afternoon, a behavior known as sundowning.
Which of the following is a less obvious environmental trigger that a CNA should assess and attempt to modify?

Accepted Answer

Increased shadows and decreased natural light as the sun sets.

Answer

The resident's hunger or thirst level.

Answer

The need for the resident to use the toilet.

Answer

The resident reporting feelings of pain or discomfort.

Question 2

A resident with severe dementia is crying and repeatedly asking to 'go home' to see her mother, who has been deceased for many years. What is the MOST therapeutic response for the CNA?

Accepted Answer

"You must miss your mother very much. Tell me a favorite memory you have of her."

Answer

"Your mother passed away a long time ago. This is your home now."

Answer

"Let's not talk about that. It's time to get ready for dinner."

Answer

"If you stop crying, I will take you to see your mother tomorrow."

Question 3

A CNA observes a resident with cognitive impairment frequently rummaging through other residents' drawers, causing distress and conflict. Which of the following is the most effective and person-centered intervention?

Accepted Answer

Create a 'rummage box' or drawer for the resident filled with safe, interesting items.

Answer

Strictly forbid the resident from entering other residents' rooms.

Answer

Inform the resident's family that they need to control this behavior during visits.

Answer

Tell the other residents to lock their drawers to prevent theft.

Question 4

You are assisting a resident with expressive aphasia who is trying to tell you something but is becoming visibly frustrated and unable to find the words. After ensuring a calm environment, what is the BEST next step?

Accepted Answer

Offer a picture board or ask simple 'yes' or 'no' questions.

Answer

Speak louder and repeat your last question multiple times.

Answer

Finish their sentences for them to speed up communication.

Answer

Leave the room and come back in 10 minutes when they have calmed down.

Question 5

A resident is discovered to be hoarding perishable food items, such as sandwiches and fruit, in their bedside table. What is the CNA's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Involve the resident, gently explaining the safety risk, and ask for permission to remove the spoiled items.

Answer

Immediately discard all the hoarded food to eliminate the health risk.

Answer

Document the finding and wait for the nurse's instructions at the end of the shift.

Answer

Place a lock on the bedside table to prevent future hoarding.

Question 6

During morning care, a resident with dementia suddenly becomes extremely agitated, shouting and striking out in response to the CNA trying to brush their teeth. This is an example of a catastrophic reaction. The CNA's first response should be to:

Accepted Answer

Explain to the resident why dental hygiene is important for their health.

Answer

Firmly hold the resident's hands and finish the task quickly.

Answer

Call for assistance to restrain the resident for safety.

Answer

Stop the task immediately, step back, and speak in a calm, reassuring voice.

A resident with dementia becomes increasingly agitated in the late afternoon, a behavior known as sundowning.Which of the following is a less obvious environmental trigger that a CNA should assess and attempt to modify?

A resident with dementia becomes increasingly agitated in the late afternoon, a behavior known as sundowning.
Which of the following is a less obvious environmental trigger that a CNA should assess and attempt to modify?