In caring for a client with Alzheimer's disease who has aggressive outbursts, what action should the nurse take?

In the context of caring for a client with Alzheimer's disease who exhibits aggressive outbursts, limiting the client's choices can be a beneficial strategy. This approach helps reduce anxiety and frustration, which are often triggers for aggression in individuals with cognitive impairments. When clients are faced with too many choices, it can lead to confusion and an overwhelming sense of loss of control, potentially escalating their aggressive behavior.

By simplifying the decision-making process and providing clear, guided options, nurses can create an environment that feels safer and more manageable for the client. This allows for better engagement and can help maintain the client's dignity while minimizing stressors that lead to aggressive outbursts. It's important to balance this strategy with an understanding of the client's preferences and capabilities, but in situations of aggression, limiting choices can help de-escalate tense situations.

Other approaches, such as increasing independence, providing verbal reassurances, or encouraging the expression of feelings, might not effectively address the immediate needs of a client experiencing agitation or aggression, which often requires more direct intervention to ensure safety and stability.