I have been wondering about one of my residents who has advanced alzheimers and hits very hard any time anyone but her husband touches her. She also scratches, grabs, and squeezes, and has come very close to breaking my fingers. She is bedridden but still has very strong arms, and cannot speak but yells very loud. I've tried talking to her many different ways, even singing to her which sometimes helps for a few minutes (holding her hands and singing "say say my playmate" is a good way to make her smile) but I can't do that and give care at the same time. For a while her husband would hold her hands while we changed her but this became too stressful for him. I've learned to stay out of her range and cover her arms when I need to get closer.
Recently another CNA suggested putting a blindfold on her so we can get in close to give care without restraining her or getting hit. Does anyone know if this is considered abuse? I've tried it (I just lay a pillowcase over her eyes) and it makes such a difference. When she can't see us, she can't hit us, at least not accurately. She still yells at first, but I can actually take care of her without getting punched or smacked. It also seems to make her a little calmer after little while when she can't see us. Of course I take it off immediately when I'm done. I also think a factor in her behavior is annoyance at having the light turned on to change her, so covering her eyes actually makes her more comfortable.
I'm afraid to ask my DNS (it's been a long time since she did anything hands-on) because I don't want her to tell me not to do it, but I still want to know. I really do want what's best for the resident, but I have to consider my own safety. :redpinkhe
