Provide Care and Support to Elderly
What this domain covers
This domain tests respectful, safe care for older adults: mobility, skin, nutrition, hydration, medication support, communication, and protection from abuse. Expect questions on fall prevention, pressure injury prevention, and dignity.
Core rules
- Normal aging: thinner skin, reduced bone density, slower digestion, reduced thirst, hearing and vision loss, and some memory change.
- Fall prevention: clear clutter, use non-slip mats, install grab bars, improve lighting, ensure proper footwear, and assist with transfers.
- Skin care: reposition bedbound clients at least every 2 hours, inspect pressure areas, and keep skin clean and dry.
- Nutrition and hydration: offer small frequent meals, fiber, and fluids through the day; monitor weight.
- Medication: remind and use a pill organizer, but never adjust a dose; report side effects.
- Dignity: give privacy, offer choices, use the preferred name, and avoid infantilizing language.
- Abuse: recognize and report; RA 9994 provides senior citizen benefits, not immunity from abuse.
Worked example
An older adult with dementia tries to leave the house at night. The caregiver does not lock them in or restrain them. Instead, they use a night light, familiar routine, safe walking space, an ID bracelet, and gentle redirection, then report the behavior. Reasoning: restraint increases injury and distress; the least restrictive safe option is preferred.
Traps that lose marks
- Using bed rails without an order.
- Restricting fluids to prevent nighttime toileting.
- Shouting at a hearing-impaired elder instead of speaking clearly.
- Treating an older adult like a child.