Dementia unmet needs

Question

A resident with dementia who usually accepts help starts shouting during the afternoon. The resident cannot explain what is wrong. What should the nursing assistant do?

1. AReport the change to the nurse and mention possible discomfort.✓ Correct

   The behavior change warrants reporting and may communicate an unmet need.

2. BAssume the resident is deliberately trying to annoy staff.✗ Incorrect

   Distress may communicate a need the resident cannot express.

3. CIgnore the shouting because dementia always causes it.✗ Incorrect

   A change in behavior should be communicated to the nurse.

4. DDiagnose the resident with a urinary infection.✗ Incorrect

   Diagnosis is outside the nursing assistant’s role.

Answer

A. Report the change to the nurse and mention possible discomfort.

Rationale

A resident may express an unmet physical or emotional need through behavior. Reporting the change lets the nurse follow up on possible causes.