A patient with dementia becomes belligerent when the nurse attempts to give him a tub bath.How should the nurse proceed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is important for the patient to maintain hygiene and cleanliness, but it is also important to respect their autonomy and avoid aggressive or confrontational behavior, as it may worsen the agitation and belligerence. Waiting for the patient to calm down and offering a towel bath may be a gentle and respectful approach. Assistance or other alternatives such as a shower or bed bath could also be considered, depending on the patient's preferences and abilities. Avoiding the bath altogether for several days may increase the risk of infection or skin breakdown. Asking another staff member to attempt the same approach may not necessarily solve the issue, as the patient's resistance may be related to personal or environmental factors rather than the specific nurse's skills or personality.

A Patient with Dementia Becomes Belligerent When the Nurse Attempts