Which statement about touching agitated residents is true?

Which statement about touching agitated residents is true?

• A. Patting or stroking always calms the resident
• B. Patting or stroking may reassure some residents, but for others it may have the opposite effect
• C. Touching is never acceptable
• D. Touching is strictly prohibited

Answer: (B)

Touch can help some residents feel safe and grounded, but it doesn’t work for everyone. In real-life care, you’ll find that gentle touch may reassure some agitated residents, providing comfort and a sense of connection. Others may react with increased agitation, fear, or confusion, especially if they’re disoriented, in pain, or have had past trauma. So the best approach is to read the individual’s cues and obtain consent before touching, using touch only when it is welcome and appropriate. When touch isn’t suitable, rely on calm conversation, clear explanations, gentle body language, and environmental adjustments to help de-escalate. Always stop if the resident signals discomfort or resistance. The idea that touch is always calming or never acceptable isn’t accurate; it depends on the person and the situation.

Touch can help some residents feel safe and grounded, but it doesn’t work for everyone. In real-life care, you’ll find that gentle touch may reassure some agitated residents, providing comfort and a sense of connection. Others may react with increased agitation, fear, or confusion, especially if they’re disoriented, in pain, or have had past trauma. So the best approach is to read the individual’s cues and obtain consent before touching, using touch only when it is welcome and appropriate. When touch isn’t suitable, rely on calm conversation, clear explanations, gentle body language, and environmental adjustments to help de-escalate. Always stop if the resident signals discomfort or resistance. The idea that touch is always calming or never acceptable isn’t accurate; it depends on the person and the situation.