A nurse in a long term care facility is concerned that a 94-year-old resident with dementia is losing weight. Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the resident, who is able to feed herself independently, consumes less than 50% of each of her meal trays. Which of the following strategies can the nurse utilize to improve this resident's intake? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Serving the resident finger foods and one dish at a time may improve the resident's intake at meals. Assigning a nursing assistant to sit with the resident may also accomplish the goal, as this may help in reducing environmental distractions. Because the resident can feed herself, it is important to promote that level of independence for as long as possible. Assigning someone to feed the resident will impede her independence.

A Nurse in a Long Term Care Facility Is Concerned