HCA - Health Care Assistant Certification Health Care Assistant Cognitive and Mental Health 1

Question 1

An HCA notices that a resident who was previously alert and oriented has suddenly become confused, agitated, and is seeing things that aren't there.
This change occurred over the past few hours.
What is the most likely explanation and appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

The resident is likely experiencing delirium; report to the nurse immediately as this may indicate a medical emergency

Answer

This is normal aging; document the behavior and continue routine care

Answer

The resident has developed dementia; reassure them and redirect to an activity

Answer

The resident is seeking attention; limit engagement to discourage the behavior

Question 2

When communicating with a resident who has moderate dementia, which technique is MOST effective for reducing distress?

Accepted Answer

Using validation therapy — acknowledging the resident's feelings and emotional reality rather than arguing with them

Answer

Correcting the resident firmly each time they say something inaccurate to keep them grounded in reality

Answer

Ignoring confused statements to avoid reinforcing them

Answer

Speaking loudly and slowly so the resident can understand better

Question 3

A resident with bipolar disorder is pacing rapidly, speaking very quickly, and tells you they haven't slept in two days and feel 'absolutely amazing.' Which phase of the illness does this MOST likely represent, and what should the HCA do?

Accepted Answer

A manic episode; observe for safety risks, calmly redirect, and report the change in behaviour to the nurse

Answer

A depressive episode; encourage the resident to rest and offer comfort

Answer

Normal excitement; no action is required unless the resident requests help

Answer

A psychotic break; immediately restrain the resident for their own safety

Question 4

Which of the following behaviors in a resident should an HCA recognize as a potential sign of depression requiring documentation and reporting?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawal from activities they previously enjoyed, tearfulness, and statements like 'nothing matters anymore'

Answer

Increased appetite and wanting to attend more social activities

Answer

Occasional forgetfulness and misplacing personal items

Answer

Sleeping eight hours per night and expressing contentment with daily routines

Question 5

A resident with dementia becomes very agitated every afternoon and tries to leave the unit, saying they need to 'pick up the children from school.' What is the BEST HCA response?

Accepted Answer

Gently redirect the resident by acknowledging their concern, then engage them in a calming activity or walk to redirect their energy

Answer

Lock the exit door and tell the resident firmly that their children are adults now and do not need picking up

Answer

Leave the resident alone until they calm down, as engaging them will escalate the behaviour

Answer

Tell the resident their children called and said not to worry, even though this is untrue

Question 6

An HCA is caring for a resident who has been diagnosed with anxiety disorder. The resident begins hyperventilating and says they feel like they are 'going to die.' What is the MOST appropriate initial response?

Accepted Answer

Stay with the resident, speak in a calm and reassuring voice, encourage slow breathing, and notify the nurse

Answer

Leave the room to give the resident space and privacy to calm down on their own

Answer

Tell the resident they are not dying and that anxiety is 'all in their head' to reassure them

Answer

Administer the resident's anxiety medication immediately without consulting the nurse