A resident of an extended care facility who has Alzheimer’s disease is sitting in a corner, crying loudly that no one is paying attention. Several staff members have tried to find out what’s wrong,...

A resident of an extended care facility who has Alzheimer’s disease is sitting in a corner, crying loudly that no one is paying attention. Several staff members have tried to find out what’s wrong, but the patient won’t answer, and just keeps rocking back and forth and crying. Which approach by the nurse might best help the patient?

1. Say in a quiet voice, “What is wrong? We can’t help you if you don’t tell us what’s wrong.” 2. Sit quietly by the patient and say, “I’m here; you aren’t alone.” 3. Say in a firm voice, “Several staff members have asked what you need. Now it is time to stop crying.” 4. Ignore the continued crying. Continuing to respond will encourage the behavior.