A nurse in a long-term care facility is approached by an older resident who is crying and states: "You need to help me. The mean little men are in my room again. They are watching me from the corner and they are laughing at me. Make them go away." The nurse accompanies the resident to the room and there is no one in the corner of the room. What is the best response by the nurse? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When dealing with a patient with frightening delusion, the nurse needs to be understanding, but not pretend to agree with the delusions. The nurse needs to ask what is troubling to the patient and provide a reassurance of safety. It is important to try and understand the patient's level of distress and what the patient is experiencing. Option A agrees with the delusion; option E does not provide reassurance or safety.

A Nurse in a Long-Term Care Facility Is Approached by an Older