CNA Certification (Written Exam)Activities of Daily LivingHard
A CNA is assisting a resident with dressing. The resident has moderate cognitive impairment and repeatedly tries to put their shirt on backwards. What is the MOST effective strategy for the CNA to use?
- ATell the resident firmly that they are doing it wrong and correct them.
- BAllow the resident to wear the shirt backwards to avoid conflict.
- CTake the shirt from the resident and dress them completely.
- DOffer a shirt with a clear front/back indicator and guide them.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Offer a shirt with a clear front/back indicator and guide them.
Offering a shirt with a clear indicator and providing gentle guidance uses a person-centered approach, promoting independence and reducing frustration for the resident with cognitive impairment, while still achieving the dressing goal.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Being firm or critical can cause distress and agitation in residents with cognitive impairment.
- B. Allowing the resident to wear the shirt backwards may be acceptable in some situations, but it doesn't address the underlying difficulty or promote proper dressing, and might not be appropriate for all settings.
- C. Taking over completely reduces resident autonomy and can lead to frustration or learned helplessness.
Dressing with Cognitive Impairment
Strategies for assisting residents with cognitive impairment include simplifying choices, using visual cues, and providing step-by-step guidance to promote independence and reduce frustration.
- Break tasks into smaller steps.
- Use visual aids or gestures.
- Maintain a calm and patient demeanor.
- Offer choices when appropriate.
Memory trick: Simplify, Show, Support: The 3 S's for Success!