CNA Care for Residents with Cognitive Impairment

Question 1

When communicating with a resident who has Alzheimer's disease and moderate cognitive impairment, the CNA should:

Accepted Answer

Use short, simple sentences and speak slowly, one step at a time

Answer

Short, simple, slow communication with one instruction at a time is most effective for residents with cognitive impairment, as it reduces confusion and gives the resident time to process and respond to each piece of information.

Question 2

A resident with dementia repeatedly asks where their deceased spouse is. Which approach is most therapeutic?

Accepted Answer

Redirect the resident to a pleasant activity while acknowledging their feelings

Answer

Acknowledging the resident's feelings and gently redirecting to a comforting activity addresses the emotional need behind the question without causing repeated grief from being told of the death, which the resident cannot retain due to cognitive impairment.

Question 3

A CNA notices that a resident with dementia has been consistently trying to leave the facility (elopement risk). What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Report the observation to the nurse immediately so safety measures can be implemented

Answer

Elopement (leaving a care facility unsafely) is a serious safety risk for residents with dementia. The CNA must immediately report these behaviors to the nurse so the care team can assess risk level and implement appropriate safety interventions.

Question 4

Sundowning is a phenomenon observed in many residents with dementia. Which description best defines sundowning?

Accepted Answer

Increased confusion, agitation, and behavioral disturbance that occurs in the late afternoon and evening

Answer

Sundowning refers to increased confusion, restlessness, agitation, and disorientation that occurs specifically in the late afternoon and evening hours in individuals with dementia, likely related to circadian rhythm disruption and fatigue.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a reality orientation technique appropriate for a resident with mild cognitive impairment?

Accepted Answer

Placing a large-print calendar and clock in the resident's room and verbally reorienting them to date and place

Answer

Reality orientation — using environmental cues like calendars and clocks combined with gentle verbal reminders about current date, time, and location — is an appropriate technique for mild cognitive impairment to help residents stay grounded in the present.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Care for Residents with Cognitive Impairment