AccessPT Channel, PTA Question of the Week

PTA Question of the Week – Nursing home resident

During an early morning treatment of an elderly nursing home resident, you notice the patient avoiding eye contact, pulling at his hair, swearing, and tapping his foot. What do these signs indicate, and what is the best way to handle the situation?

  1. Hearing loss; Maintain eye contact at all times and speak loudly and firmly
  2. Signs of agitation; speak calmly and respectfully to the patient to determine the cause of the agitation
  3. Sundowning; move the patient to a quiet room with few distractions and resume treatment
  4. Low vision; adjust the lighting and provide more auditory cues and instructions

The solution will be posted in a few days.