A client with Alzheimer's disease in an assisted living complex ...

[bclement10]

A client with Alzheimer's disease in an assisted living complex has been treated for dehydration twice this year, mostly because he does not drink unless someone offers him water. The best way to monitor hydration status would be to:
 
  1. Monitor weight daily.
   2. Monitor input and output (I&O).
   3. Offer him coffee several times a day.
   4. Provide a pitcher of water and track how much he drinks.

Question 2

Mr. D. frequently drinks 34 martinis before dinner every night. He does not see himself as an alcoholic.
 
  He feels that drinking liquor and beer are very different, and that alcoholics are people who drink beer in excess because only a small amount of liquor is used to make a martini. When discussing sources of alcohol, the best response for the nurse would be: 1. The alcohol in 4 martinis is equal to about 11 cans of regular beer..
   2. People who drink martinis may consume a smaller amount of alcohol but can still be considered alcoholics..
   3. Beer and martinis have the same alcohol and calorie content..
   4. Only beer drinkers are considered alcoholics if they overindulge..

[kingdude89]

Answer to Question 1

2
Rationale: Clients with Alzheimer's disease often have a blunted response to thirst and need to be monitored closely to avoid dehydration. Keeping a record of the daily I&O will provide a tool for determining fluid needs. Coffee has been linked with water loss and may exacerbate the situation. Dependency on others for fluids is always a risk for dehydration, and frequent reminders and coaching is needed even if fluids are in the proximity.

Answer to Question 2

1
Rationale: The average 12-ounce serving of regular beer contains about 14 gm of alcohol. A martini contains about 38 gm of alcohol, almost 11 times more than a can of beer. Anyone who drinks to excess and can't control their desire for alcohol can be considered an alcoholic. It does not make a difference what type of alcohol they consume.

[bclement10]

Thank you!

[kingdude89]

Always glad to help...