Author Question: An older client complains of periods of confusion and forgetfulness, but reports clear thought ... (Read 51 times)

karateprodigy · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

An older client complains of periods of confusion and forgetfulness, but reports clear thought process at most times of the day. The family asks the nurse the reason for these changes. The best response by the nurse is which of the following?

1. You probably have nothing to worry about. It's most likely stress-related..
2. Everybody has a few problems with memory as they get older..
3. Have you started any new medications since the symptoms began?
4. You should probably have an MRI of your brain..

Question 2

The nurse is planning care for a client with osteoarthritis of the hip. Which of the following interventions would be appropriate for this client?

1. Provide opioid pain medication as prescribed
2. Provide moist heat packs to affected joint 3 times each day
3. Provide NSAIDs when pain severe
4. Instruct client on the importance of strict bed rest

Yixagurpuldink · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3. Have you started any new medications since the symptoms began?

Rationale:
The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease requires the documented presence of dementia, onset between 40 and 90 years, no loss of consciousness, and absence of systemic or brain disorders that could cause mental changes. Side effects of medication should also be ruled out as a possible cause of the symptoms. A nurse should never discount the client's concerns, and memory loss with confusion and forgetfulness is not part of the normal aging process. The nurse needs to explore further before an expensive diagnostic study is considered. It would be beyond the scope of practice for the nurse to recommend this testing.

Answer to Question 2

2. Provide moist heat packs to affected joint 3 times each day

Rationale:
Interventions appropriate for a client with osteoarthritis include NSAIDs, moist heat, active range of motion exercises, proper posture and body mechanics, and assistive devices to safely maintain independence with activities of daily living. Opioid medication is not typically prescribed for the treatment of osteoarthritis. NSAIDs are more effective if taken before the pain is severe. The client should be encouraged to be mobile, not on strict bed rest.