4. Communication Challenges Flashcards
What is a method to explain the position of objects to a resident who is visually impaired? [STAR]
use the face of an imaginary clock as a guide
T/F - most hearing loss occurs very suddenly
False - most occurs gradually
Define defense mechanisms
unconscious behaviors used to release tension and/or help a person cope with stress
Denial [STAR]
blocking reality; rejecting the thought or feeling
Displacement [STAR]
transferring a strong feeling to a less threatening object or person
Projection [STAR]
seeing feelings in others that are actually one’s own
Rationalization [STAR]
making excuses to justify something
Repression [STAR]
blocking painful events or feelings from the mind
Regression [STAR]
going back to behavior from the past for comfort
Anxiety vs fear
- Anxiety: unease or worry, often about a situation or condition
- Fear: occurs when dealing with a specific and immediate danger
Name 5 physical symptoms of anxiety
nausea, shaking, sweating, chest pain, and tachycardia
T/F - residents who have recently moved into the facility may be depressed
True
What are some causes of anger (6)?
illness, fear, pain, grief, loneliness, or loss of independence
Name some ways that anger is expressed
- yelling, throwing things, being sarcastic, pacing, and threatening others
- narrowed eyes and clenched or raised fists
- being withdrawn, silent, or sulking
Assertive vs Aggressive behavior
- Assertive - expressing thoughts and feelings in a direct, honest, and respectful way (a desired trait)
- Aggressive - expressing thoughts and feelings in a way that humiliates or overpowers another person (doesn’t show respect)
What are some early signs of possible combativeness that you should look out for?
pacing, tensing of the body, a flushed face, and an angry look
T/F - if a resident tries to hit you, never hit back [STAR]
True
What can cause inappropriate sexual behavior in residents? What can cause it if the resident is confused?
- illness, dementia, confusion, or medication
- if the resident is confused, may be caused by a rash, clothes that are too tight, too hot, or too scratchy, or they need to use the restroom
Disorientation vs Confusion [STAR]
- Disorientation - confusion about a person, place, or time; may be permanent or temporary
- Confusion - inability to think clearly or logically
What 5 physical problems may cause disorientation?
- injury or disorder in the brain
- dehydration
- constipation
- hypoxia
- medication
Define coma [STAR]
state of unconsciousness in which a person is unable to be aroused even by powerful stimulation; they do not respond to pain, open their eyes, or speak
Define persistent vegetative state (PVC) [STAR]
person may have some level of consciousness; may open eyes and have some facial movements (mostly physical reactions)
Define minimally conscious state (MCS) [STAR]
person exhibits some cognitive behavior and shows sporadic signs of consciousness such as crying or laughing appropriately
T/F - CNA does not need to speak to unconscious residents such as those in a come [STAR]
False - residents may be able to hear what is going on around them; speak respectfully and explain what you are doing like with any other resident
