A resident with moderate Alzheimer's dementia insists she must 'go pick up the children from school' although her children are grown. Which response BEST uses validation therapy?
Explanation
Validation therapy (Naomi Feil) honors the emotional reality behind the words rather than correcting facts. The CNA acknowledges the underlying feeling (love for her children) and offers reminiscence and gentle redirection. Direct contradiction (a) increases agitation. Reality orientation (c) is appropriate only in early dementia or delirium; in moderate-to-severe dementia it causes distress. Ignoring (d) is dismissive and may be psychological neglect under 42 CFR §483.12. 42 CFR §483.40 requires behavioral health services that meet each resident's needs.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.40; Title 22 CCR §72315This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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