Nursing Diagnosis for Dementia
Dementia is a word for a group of symptoms caused by disorders that affect the brain. It is not a specific disease. People with dementia may not be able to think well enough to do normal activities, such as getting dressed or eating. They may lose their ability to solve problems or control their emotions. Their personalities may change. They may become agitated or see things that are not there.
Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia. However, memory loss by itself does not mean you have dementia. People with dementia have serious problems with two or more brain functions, such as memory and language.
Many different diseases can cause dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and stroke. Drugs are available to treat some of these diseases. While these drugs cannot cure dementia or repair brain damage, they may improve symptoms or slow down the disease.
NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Nursing Diagnosis for Dementia
- Impaired Verbal Communication related to cerebral impairment as demonstrated by altered memory, judgment, and word finding
- Bathing or Hygiene Self-Care Deficit related to cognitive impairment as demonstrated by inattention and inability to complete ADLs
- Risk for Injury related to cognitive impairment and wandering behavior
- Impaired Social Interaction related to cognitive impairment
- Risk for Violence: Self-directed or Other-directed related to suspicion and inability to recognize people or places