A client with long-standing dementia is sent to the emergency department from the nursing home in which the client resides. The report from the nursing staff states that the client is complaining of vague pain in the buttocks but seems to be ambulating without problems. The family requested the transfer. The emergency department nurse would suspect
A) an overprotective family.
B) arthritis pain the client cannot articulate.
C) possible hip fracture.
D) worsening dementia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Some clients with hip fractures have normal ambulation and complain only of vague pain in their buttocks, knees, thighs, groin, or back, especially if they also have dementia. Since hip fractures are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the elderly, the nurse must maintain a high index of suspicion for fractures, especially in a client who has dementia.

A Client with Long-Standing Dementia Is Sent to the Emergency