A nurse teaches a client and care partner about cholinesterase ...

[Beheh]

A nurse teaches a client and care partner about cholinesterase inhibitors. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
 
  B) Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite can be prevented or reduced by starting with a low dose.
  C) Rivastigmine is only for treatment of mild Alzheimer's disease and will be discontinued as the disease progresses.
  D) You should have a 'drug holiday' monthly to improve the medication's functioning.

Question 2

A nurse is conducting a class at a senior citizens' center on factors that protect against dementia. Which of the following statements by an older adult in the class indicates a need for further teaching by the nurse?
 
  A) No healthy lifestyle is going to ward off dementia.
  B) Eating food high in omega-3 fatty acids will help preserve my thinking processes.
  C) Engaging in social activities will help prevent dementia.
  D) Engaging in an organized exercise program will help prevent symptoms of dementia.

[parshano]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: B
When administering medications to older adults, it is imperative to start with lower doses and increase the doses slowly. Exelon is less likely to interact with other drugs and may be safer and better tolerated in people. It will continue and other medications may be added. The effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors is diminished significantly if it is stopped and then restarted.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: A
Engaging in regular exercise has a positive effect on preventing cognitive decline. Omega-3 fatty acids are nutritional interventions that help preserve cognition. There is evidence that engaging in stimulating and meaningful activities also has a positive effect on preventing cognitive decline. Adopting a healthy lifestyle may help ward off dementia just as it does other diseases.