CNA > Emotional & Mental Health > Flashcards

Emotional & Mental Health Flashcards

Recognize the emotional and mental needs of patients, including pursuing interventions when necessary (44 cards)

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1
Q

What is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs?

A

A theory that organizes human needs in a pyramid, from basic to advanced.

Maslow’s Hierarchy is a theory that organizes human needs in a pyramid, from basic to advanced.

CNA Insight: This helps you understand that a resident must have their basic needs (like food and safety) met before they can worry about things like friendship or self-esteem.

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2
Q

Which level of Maslow’s hierarchy includes food, water, and oxygen?

A

Physical needs

These are the most basic needs for survival.

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3
Q

How can caregivers help meet a patient’s safety and security needs?

A
  1. Prevent falls
  2. Maintain cleanliness
  3. Provide emotional reassurance

A locked bed wheel, a clean room, and a calm voice all make the resident feel safe. Your presence is often the best security they have.

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4
Q

List TWO ways to support a patient’s social needs.

A
  1. Encourage social interaction
  2. Assist with group activities

Social interaction reduces loneliness and promotes emotional well-being.

Social needs help prevent isolation and depression.

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5
Q

True or False:

A patient must meet self-fulfillment needs before meeting physical needs.

A

False

Lower-level needs must be met before advancing to higher needs.

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6
Q

Define:

Emotional Support

A

Providing comfort, encouragement, and reassurance.

Emotional support can be through active listening, offering reassurance, and showing empathy. It can improve mental well-being and overall health.

CNA Insight: This is a huge part of your job. Sometimes, a gentle touch on the shoulder or a kind word is more important than any medicine.

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7
Q

Define:

Active Listening

A

Fully concentrating on what the patient is saying.

Active listening builds trust and understanding.

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8
Q

List TWO common mood changes in elderly patients.

A
  1. Depression
  2. Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can be related to life changes or health issues. These are not a normal part of aging. You must report any signs of sadness, withdrawal, or excessive worry to the nurse.

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9
Q

Which interventions can help a patient struggling with anxiety?

A
  1. Deep breathing exercises
  2. Reducing triggers
  3. Reassurance

Anxiety can be managed with coping strategies.

Emotional interventions improve mental and emotional well-being, promoting coping and recovery.

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10
Q

How can a caregiver assist a patient experiencing grief?

A
  1. Acknowledge emotions
  2. Provide comfort
  3. Listen

Grief is a normal process that takes time. Do not try to fix their grief or tell them “it will be okay.” Just listen, let them cry, and let them know that you are there for them.

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11
Q

True or False:

Dementia patients may experience frequent mood swings.

A

True

Cognitive decline can affect emotional regulation.

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12
Q

Define:

Defense Mechanism

A

A psychological strategy used to cope with stress or anxiety.

Defense mechanisms can be healthy or unhealthy.

They include: Denial, projection, and withdrawal.

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13
Q

Define:

Denial

A

Refusing to accept reality.

Denial can prevent emotional overwhelm but may delay acceptance.

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14
Q

How does withdrawal manifest in patients?

A

Avoiding social interactions or activities.

Withdrawal may indicate depression or anxiety.

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15
Q

What is projection in psychological defense?

A

Attributing one’s feelings to another person.

Often used unconsciously to avoid personal distress.

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16
Q

Why is self-esteem important in patient care?

A

It affects confidence and overall well-being.

Positive reinforcement can improve self-image.

Self-esteem needs involve feeling valued and respected by others.

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17
Q

How can caregivers assist a patient struggling with self-fulfillment?

A
  • Support hobbies
  • Encourage goal setting

Finding purpose enhances quality of life.

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18
Q

List THREE emotions commonly experienced by terminally ill patients.

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A
  1. Fear
  2. Anger
  3. Sadness

Be patient, listen, and provide comfort. Never take their anger personally. End-of-life care includes emotional support.

19
Q

What should a caregiver do if a patient expresses feelings of sadness?

Study These Flashcards
A

Encourage the patient to talk and offer support.

Ignoring emotions can lead to further distress.

20
Q

True or False:

Depression is a normal part of aging that should not be treated.

Study These Flashcards
A

False

Depression affects both mental and physical health and should be treated regardless of age.

It may be characterized by fatigue and a loss of interest in activities.

21
Q

Define:

Anxiety Disorder

Study These Flashcards
A

A condition characterized by excessive worry and fear.

Anxiety disorders can interfere with daily life.

22
Q

What is post-traumatic stress disorder?

(PTSD)

Study These Flashcards
A

A mental health condition caused by past trauma.

PTSD can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.

CNA Insight: Residents with PTSD may be easily startled or have flashbacks. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and always approach them slowly and calmly.

23
Q

How should a caregiver respond to a patient with panic attacks?

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A
  1. Stay calm
  2. Provide reassurance
  3. Encourage deep breathing

A calm environment helps reduce anxiety.

24
Q

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

(OCD)

Study These Flashcards
A

A disorder involving repetitive thoughts and behaviors.

OCD can interfere with daily activities.

CNA Insight: The resident may feel they must do certain things (like washing their hands many times) to feel safe. Be patient and try to work with their routine, not against it.

25
What condition might a patient be experiencing if they feel the **need to count everything** to alleviate anxiety?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder | (**OCD**) ## Footnote It involves compulsive behaviors, such as counting, to manage obsessive thoughts.
26
How can caregivers support a patient with **memory loss**?
1. Use reminders 2. Maintain routine 3. Provide reassurance ## Footnote Memory loss can cause frustration and confusion. **CNA Insight**: A predictable routine is the best way to reduce confusion and anxiety. Always introduce yourself and tell them what you are about to do.
27
List TWO signs of **emotional distress** in patients.
1. Withdrawal from activities 2. Irritability ## Footnote Recognizing distress helps provide timely support.
28
How can a caregiver encourage a **positive outlook**?
1. Use positive language 2. Highlight achievements ## Footnote Optimism can improve mental resilience.
29
What is **validation** therapy?
A method of **acknowledging** a patient’s emotions and experiences. ## Footnote Validation therapy is a method of acknowledging a patient’s emotions and experiences. **CNA Insight**: This is often used with dementia residents. If they say, "I need to go home," you validate their feeling by saying, "It sounds like you miss your home." You do not argue with them.
30
How does **lack of sleep** impact emotional health?
**It increases**: 1. Irritability 2. Stress 3. Anxiety ## Footnote Lack of sleep increases irritability, stress, and anxiety. **CNA Insight**: Ensure the resident's room is dark, quiet, and comfortable at night. Report any complaints of insomnia to the nurse.
31
What should a caregiver do if a patient has a **sudden outburst**?
1. Stay calm 2. Assess the cause 3. Offer reassurance ## Footnote Emotional outbursts may signal unmet needs.
32
How can caregivers help **prevent** feelings of **isolation**?
* Encourage group activities * Facilitate socialization ## Footnote Feeling connected improves emotional health.
33
Why is **touch important** for emotional well-being?
It provides **comfort** and **reassurance**. ## Footnote A gentle touch can reduce anxiety and loneliness.
34
How should caregivers approach **difficult conversations** about illness?
* Speak honestly * Listen actively * Provide support ## Footnote Be truthful but kind. Do not give false hope. Just listen to their fears and let them know you will support them through it.
35
What is the importance of **therapeutic activities**?
1. Engage patients 2. Improve mental health ## Footnote Activities like music and art therapy are beneficial. They help the resident feel useful and reduce boredom and depression.
36
List THREE signs of **emotional abuse** in patients.
1. Withdrawal 2. Fearfulness 3. Sudden mood changes ## Footnote **CNA Insight**: If you suspect any form of abuse, you must report it immediately to the nurse or supervisor. This is your legal and ethical duty.
37
# Define: **Patient-centered** Care
An approach that **respects** a patient’s individual **needs and preferences**. ## Footnote Patient-centered care is an approach that fosters independence and dignity and respects a patient’s individual needs. **CNA Insight**: This means the resident is the boss. You must respect their choices, even if you do not agree with them, as long as they are safe.
38
How can a caregiver help a patient **experiencing anger**?
* Stay calm * Listen * Provide a safe space ## Footnote Anger may be an expression of frustration or fear. You should stay calm, listen, and provide a safe space. Do not argue or raise your voice. Let them vent their anger, and then try to find the cause.
39
How should a caregiver handle a patient **experiencing paranoia**?
* Reassure them * Avoid arguing * Maintain a calm tone ## Footnote Paranoia may be a symptom of mental illness or dementia. It is a false belief that others are trying to harm them. Do not try to convince them they are wrong. Just reassure them that you are there to keep them safe.
40
Why is **maintaining routine** important for mental health?
It reduces **anxiety** and promotes **stability**. ## Footnote A predictable routine helps patients feel secure.
41
How can **humor/laughter** benefit emotional health?
* Reduces stress * Improves mood * Promotes social bonding ## Footnote Humor and laughter have therapeutic effects and they can be a powerful coping mechanism.
42
What is **resilience** in mental health?
The **ability to recover** from stress or adversity. ## Footnote Resilience helps individuals cope with challenges.
43
How can **relaxation techniques** benefit patients?
They **reduce** stress, anxiety, and tension. ## Footnote Simple things like deep breathing, listening to music, or a gentle back rub can help the resident relax.
44
How does **physical exercise** impact mental health?
* Boosts mood * Reduces anxiety * Reduces depression ## Footnote Exercise releases endorphins, which improve well-being. **CNA Insight**: Even a short walk down the hall can release feel-good chemicals in the brain. Encourage them to move as much as possible.
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