Question

When a resident with AD hoards and rummages, the NA should *

A) Warn the family that the resident is stealing things
B) Try to confine the resident to his/her room
C) Tell the resident he/she needs to return the stolen items
D) Provide a rummage drawer"

Answer 1

To address hoarding and rummaging in a resident with AD, a Nursing Assistant should provide a rummage drawer, respecting the resident's dignity and redirecting the behavior positively.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a resident with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) hoards and rummages, the Nursing Assistant (NA) should provide a rummage drawer. This approach respects the dignity of the resident while addressing the behavior in a safe and controlled manner. Hoarding and rummaging are common behaviors in individuals with AD, often driven by the need for the security of familiar items or by the restlessness and anxiety that can accompany the disease.

It is essential to handle the situation with care, rather than accusing the resident of stealing or trying to confine them to a room, which may lead to distress and agitation. Creating a rummage drawer allows the resident to explore and handle items in a non-threatening environment, thereby redirecting their behavior in a positive way. Additionally, it's important to communicate with the resident's family about the purpose of the rummage drawer and how it helps manage their loved one's behavior in a compassionate manner.