Sam has late stage dementia. What common late stage risk should staff be most concerned about?

• A. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
• B. Aspiration pneumonia
• C. Substance abuse
• D. Manic episodes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the progression of dementia and its stages, focusing on the characteristics and common complications associated with late-stage dementia.
2. Step 2: Identify typical behavioral symptoms in late-stage dementia, noting that obsessive-compulsive behaviors, substance abuse, and manic episodes are less common or not primary concerns at this stage.
3. Step 3: Recognize that late-stage dementia often leads to severe cognitive and physical decline, including difficulties with swallowing and mobility.
4. Step 4: Learn that aspiration pneumonia is a common and serious risk in late-stage dementia due to impaired swallowing (dysphagia), which can cause food or liquids to enter the lungs.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the options given, aspiration pneumonia is the most critical risk for staff to monitor and prevent in patients with late-stage dementia.