Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) Practice

How should a nurse assist an older client with Alzheimer disease who is dressed in nightclothes but has multiple outfits laid out?

1. Schedule a staff member to help the client

2. Help the client select appropriate attire and offer to help the client get dressed

3. Allow the client to decide what to wear

4. Leave the client to dress independently

The correct answer is: Help the client select appropriate attire and offer to help the client get dressed

Assisting an older client with Alzheimer's disease involves recognizing their cognitive challenges and providing appropriate support. Helping the client select appropriate attire and offering assistance with getting dressed is crucial because individuals with Alzheimer's often have difficulty making decisions, including those about clothing. This guidance not only supports their dignity and sense of self but also helps them maintain a routine that can be comforting and familiar. By taking the time to help the client choose an outfit and assisting them with dressing, the nurse can mitigate any frustration that might arise from the client's inability to make choices due to their cognitive impairment. This approach fosters a supportive environment, promotes safety, and encourages positive interactions. It allows the nurse to engage with the client in a way that respects their autonomy while providing the necessary assistance. In contrast, scheduling another staff member to help may not provide the one-on-one interaction that can be beneficial in this context. Allowing the client to decide what to wear or leaving them to dress independently may lead to confusion or frustration if they are unable to make a choice or do not remember how to dress properly, further complicating their emotional state. Therefore, actively participating in the dressing process strikes the right balance between support and independence.