Donepezil (Aricept) has been prescribed for a patient with ...

[londonang]

Donepezil (Aricept) has been prescribed for a patient with Alzheimer disease (AD). Which statement indicates that the patient and spouse understand teaching about the medication?
 
  a. It is best to take the medication at bed-time.
  b. The medication will interact with dark leafy greens.
  c. Taking the medication with a citrus be-verage should improve absorption.
  d. The medication should be taken with meals.

Question 2

An exhausted daughter is the sole caregiver to a patient with moderate Alzheimer disease (AD). She asks the nurse what respite care entails. Which statement indicates that the caregiver under-stands the nurse's response?
 
  a. My mom would stay in a long-term care facility for a short time while I rest.
  b. Home health aides would come to our home and help me with housework.
  c. A registered nurse would provide total care for my mom in 3 day intervals.
  d. I would be connected with a special support group to share stresses and com-municate with other caregivers.

[Jane]

Answer to Question 1

D
Donepezil (Aricept) is used in the management of AD. It has been shown to elevate acetylcholine levels in the brain and will slow the progression of the condition. The medication should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal distress.

Answer to Question 2

A
Respite care is placing the patient temporarily in a long-term care facility (usually for no longer than a month) to give the family respite from the responsibility of 24/7 care.