To equip nurses with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate, patient-centred care to individuals with dementia and build emotional resilience and empathy.

1. using stress management techniques
2. recognizing dementia symptoms
3. enhancing communication skills specific for contact with patients with dementia (clear, simple language; non-verbal communication: maintaining eye contact, gentle body language, calm tone of voice)
4. applying de-escalation strategies when the patient exhibits frustration, fear or aggression
5. responding appropriately to a patient’s wandering thoughts or disoriented behaviours
6. validating the patient’s feelings and using distraction as a strategy to reduce confusion or agitation

Characters

Patient: Margaret, 78 years old. Margaret has moderate dementia and has been admitted to the hospital due to a suspected infection. She is disoriented, fearful and suspicious of unfamiliar people. She refuses the blood test, physically resists, and responds positively to calm, empathetic communication.

Nurse: Sarah, 32 years old. Sarah is a compassionate and experienced nurse trained in dementia care. She understands the importance of clear communication and de-escalation techniques to build trust and reassure patients.

A quiet hospital room with a bed, a chair, and a table with medical supplies.