An older adult client complains of periods of confusion and ...

[K@]

An older adult client complains of periods of confusion and forgetfulness, but reports clear thought process at most times of the day. Which is the appropriate response from the nurse?
 
  A) Are you having trouble hearing?
  B) You probably have nothing to worry about. It's most likely stress-related.
  C) Everybody has a few problems with memory as they get older.
  D) You should probably have an MRI of your brain.

Question 2

The family of an older adult client is concerned about the changes in the client's behavior. The client used to be a wonderful cook but now cannot even remember how to use a blender. For which causes of impaired cognitive function should the nurse assess
 
  Select all that apply.
  A) Obesity
  B) Nutritional deficiencies
  C) Medication reactions
  D) Stroke
  E) Snoring

[TheNamesImani]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: A

People who cannot hear or see well often appear confused. The nurse should assess whether the client is having difficulty with these prior to moving on in the assessment process. 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

Answer: B, C, D

Any change or deviation from normal in an individual's cognitive function should be evaluated. Nutritional deficiencies, medication reactions, and stroke are conditions that can result in impaired cognitive ability. Snoring and obesity are not conditions noted to result in impaired cognitive functioning.

[K@]

Excellent

[Joy Chen]

TYSM