Question

A 72-year-old woman with dementia in a long-term care facility has developed agitation and wandering. Staff request antipsychotics. According to Canadian dementia care guidance and Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

First assess for unmet needs, delirium, pain, and environmental triggers, and implement non-pharmacologic strategies

Answer

Start a high-dose atypical antipsychotic immediately

Answer

Physically restrain the patient to prevent wandering

Answer

Increase benzodiazepine dosing at night

Answer

Transfer to acute care for sedation

Practice question

A 72-year-old woman with dementia in a long-term care facility has developed agitation and wandering. Staff request antipsychotics. According to Canadian dementia care guidance and Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate first step?