Managing agitation and aggression in patients with dementia

Abstract

<p>Dementia is a degenerative progressive disease that leads to multiple behavioral disturbances particularly behaviors of agitation and aggression. Risperdal is the most common antipsychotic agent used in patients with dementia experiencing these behaviors, however, there are associated risks with it use. There are non-pharmacological interventions to medications that can be beneficial and pose no risk in the management of agitation and aggression. The research reviewed demonstrated evidence that non-pharmacological interventions should be used prior to antipsychotic medications. Some interventions currently being used are aromatherapy, doll therapy, and music therapy. The caring theory suggest that the approach to caring is the care giver&rsquo;s ability to provide person centered care. Caring for dementia patients with agitation and aggression has to focus on the whole patient and treat the triggers that cause the problematic behavior. The advanced practice nurse should not pursue a single method and is entrusted with assessing the patient and including what works best for the patient, family and caregiver.</p>