Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

What is a common nursing intervention for a client with Alzheimer's disease who wanders?

1. Limit the client's movement

2. Allow the client to wander in a prescribed area

3. Use physical restraints

4. Provide sedative medication

The correct answer is: Allow the client to wander in a prescribed area

Allowing the client to wander in a prescribed area is an effective nursing intervention for managing individuals with Alzheimer's disease who tend to wander. This approach recognizes that wandering can be a natural behavior for many individuals with these cognitive impairments, often stemming from confusion or the need for physical activity. Designating a safe space for wandering helps to reduce the risk of injury from falls or getting lost, while also allowing the person to maintain a degree of autonomy and independence. It often helps to alleviate anxiety and frustration since wandering can often be a way for the individual to express their needs, such as the need for movement or exploration. By ensuring that the area is secure and monitored, caregivers can more effectively manage the behavior without resorting to more restrictive measures. In contrast to this approach, limiting the client's movement can lead to increased agitation and aggression, as individuals with Alzheimer’s may feel confined and restricted. Using physical restraints is generally considered an inappropriate intervention due to ethical concerns and potential physical harm. Providing sedative medication can also create adverse effects and is not a sustainable solution for the behavior of wandering. Thus, allowing controlled wandering is aligned with best practices for promoting safety and dignity among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.