A resident with Alzheimer's disease sits by the window holding a leash and says, "My dog is waiting in the yard and will starve if I stay here." Using validation therapy, what is the BEST CNA response?
Answer choices
- AThere is no dog outside and you have lived here for years
- BYou cannot go outside because all exits are locked
- CYou sound worried about your dog. Tell me what your dog was like
- DPut that leash down and stop talking about animals
About this question
What is the best validation therapy response when a resident with Alzheimer's says their dog is waiting outside and will starve? Dementia communication items test whether you join the emotion or argue facts. Harsh reality orientation and locked-door threats are common traps on Psychosocial Care stems. Read the wording and clinical context closely; those details determine the NNAAP competency being tested.
This practice question asks for the BEST validation response. Acknowledge the worry and invite the resident to talk about the dog. Do not insist there is no dog, emphasize locked exits, or command the resident to stop. Validation explores feelings and memories to reduce distress. For validation therapy dementia worried dog, pair validate-the-feeling with one reality-orientation trap you would reject.
Reveal answer & explanationShow
Correct answer
- AThere is no dog outside and you have lived here for years
- BYou cannot go outside because all exits are locked
- CYou sound worried about your dog. Tell me what your dog was likeCorrect
- DPut that leash down and stop talking about animals
Basic rationale
Validation joins the resident's feelings about caring for the dog instead of arguing that no dog is outside. Ask about the pet to reduce distress.
Option explanations
- A: Incorrect. Harsh reality orientation often worsens agitation.
- B: Incorrect. Emphasizing locked doors can raise fear.
- C: Correct. Validation explores the resident's feelings and memories.
- D: Incorrect. Commands dismiss the resident's feelings.
Deep Analysis
Core logic
The resident is expressing purpose and worry. Validation explores that emotional world calmly rather than correcting the fact that no dog is present.
Distractor analysis
A: Harsh reality orientation often worsens agitation B: Emphasizing locked doors can raise fear D: Commands dismiss the resident's feelings
Exam trap
Truth-telling about pets feels honest but often increases panic in dementia.
Memory tip
Lost pet story: ask about the animal, do not argue it away.
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