Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a patient exhibiting rummaging behaviors?

• A. Restrict the patient’s access to all personal belongings
• B. Ignore the behavior and avoid any interaction with the patient
• C. Provide a designated area with safe items for the patient to rummage through
• D. Use physical restraints to prevent the patient from rummaging

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of rummaging behavior, which is often seen in patients with cognitive impairments such as dementia, where they search through items possibly due to curiosity, boredom, or unmet needs.
2. Recognize that restrictive or punitive measures (like restricting access to belongings or using physical restraints) can increase agitation and distress, and are generally not recommended.
3. Consider that ignoring the behavior might not address the underlying cause and could lead to frustration or escalation.
4. Identify that providing a designated area with safe items for the patient to rummage through offers a constructive outlet for the behavior, meeting the patient's need to explore in a safe and controlled environment.
5. Conclude that the most appropriate intervention is to create a safe space with items for rummaging, which respects the patient's autonomy and reduces potential harm.