Author Question: The spouse of a patient newly diagnosed with mild, unilateral symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) ... (Read 59 times)

mp14 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The spouse of a patient newly diagnosed with mild, unilateral symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) asks the nurse what, besides medication, can be done to manage the disease. The nurse will

a. counsel the spouse that parkinsonism is a normal part of the aging process in some people.
b. recommend exercise, nutritional counseling, and group support to help manage the disease.
c. tell the spouse that the disease will not progress if mild symptoms are treated early.
d. tell the spouse that medication therapy can be curative if drugs are begun in time.

Question 2

An older patient exhibits a shuffling gait, lack of facial expression, and tremors at rest. The nurse will expect the provider to order which medication for this patient?

a. Carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet)
b. Donepezil (Aricept)
c. Rivastigmine (Exelon)
d. Tacrine (Cognex)

mcinincha279 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
PD is a progressive disorder. Nonpharmacologic measures can lessen symptoms and help patients and families cope with the disorder. Although the aging process may contribute to the development of PD, it is not necessarily a normal part of aging. Treatment may slow the progression but does not arrest or cure the disease.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
This patient is exhibiting signs of Parkinson's disease and should be treated with carbidopa-levodopa. The other drugs are used to treat Alzheimer's disease.