Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) Practice

What should nurses do to help manage wandering behavior in clients with dementia?

1. Encourage prolonged stays in solitary rooms

2. Preventing movement by using restraint devices

3. Implement structured routines and safe environments

4. Reduce monitoring to promote independence

The correct answer is: Implement structured routines and safe environments

Implementing structured routines and safe environments is a highly effective strategy for managing wandering behavior in clients with dementia. Establishing predictable schedules offers a sense of security and familiarity, which can reduce anxiety and confusion that often lead to wandering. When clients have a routine, they are less likely to feel the need to roam aimlessly, as they are engaged in meaningful activities that keep them occupied and focused. Moreover, creating a safe environment is essential. This involves arranging physical spaces in ways that prevent potential hazards, ensuring that exits are secure, and providing visual cues to aid navigation. Such environments help to mitigate the risks associated with wandering while promoting a sense of autonomy and dignity for the clients. In contrast, encouraging prolonged stays in solitary rooms can increase feelings of isolation and disorientation, potentially exacerbating wandering tendencies. Restraint devices pose ethical and safety concerns, often leading to more stress and agitation for the client. Reducing monitoring might seem to foster independence, but in practice, it can lead to unsafe situations and increased anxiety for both the client and caregivers. Thus, structured routines and safe environments are fundamental components in effectively managing wandering behaviors in individuals with dementia.