Communication & CultureQuestion 23 of 200

When communicating with a resident who has moderate dementia, the CNA should:

a.Approach from the front, make eye contact, use the resident's name, speak slowly with short simple sentences, allow time for response
b.Quiz the resident on the day, the date, and the name of the current president at every interaction so that she stays oriented to reality
c.Speak rapidly and finish the conversation quickly so the resident does not tire
d.Give complex multi-step instructions to challenge the resident's remaining cognition

Explanation

Best practice for residents with cognitive impairment is to approach from the front to avoid startling, make eye contact, use the resident's name, give one-step simple instructions, and allow time to respond. Reality-testing quizzes (b) increase anxiety and are not recommended; rapid speech (c) reduces comprehension; complex instructions (d) overwhelm working memory and cause distress. Calm, validating, person-centered communication preserves dignity per 22 CCR §72527.

Law Reference: 22 CCR §72527(a)(8) (right to information)

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