ATI Comprehensive Predictor PN Related

Review ATI Comprehensive Predictor PN related questions and content

A client diagnosed with dementia wanders the halls of the locked nursing unit during the day. To ensure the client's safety while walking in the halls, the nurse should do which of the following?

  • A. Administer PRN haloperidol (Haldol) to decrease the need to walk
  • B. Assess the client's gait for steadiness
  • C. Restrain the client in a geriatric chair
  • D. Administer PRN lorazepam (Ativan) to provide sedation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the client's gait for steadiness is the most appropriate action to ensure the safety of a client with dementia while walking. This allows the nurse to identify any issues that may increase the risk of falls or accidents. Administering PRN haloperidol or lorazepam is not indicated as the first-line approach in managing wandering behavior and can have adverse effects like increased risk of falls, confusion, or oversedation. Restraint use should be avoided whenever possible, as it can lead to physical and psychological harm to the client.