Author Question: The nurse is teaching a family member about an elderly parent's new prescription for tacrine ... (Read 44 times)

debasdf · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The nurse is teaching a family member about an elderly parent's new prescription for tacrine (Cognex) to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). The family member asks what to expect from this drug. The nurse will respond that the patient will

a. demonstrate improved ambulation.
b. have reversal of all symptoms.
c. have decreased deterioration of cognition.
d. show improved communication ability.

Question 2

The nurse is providing teaching for the family of a patient who has been newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Which statement by the family member indicates understanding of the teaching?

a. Alzheimer's disease is a chronic, progressive condition.
b. Alzheimer's disease affects memory but not personality.
c. The onset of Alzheimer's disease is usually between 65 and 75 years.
d. With proper treatment, symptoms of this disease can be arrested.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Tacrine can help to increase cognitive function for patients with mild to moderate AD. For the most part, drugs to treat AD do not result in improvement of symptoms but help slow the progress.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
AD is chronic and progressive, and there is no cure. It affects memory and personality. The onset is usually between 45 and 65 years. Symptoms cannot be arrested but may be slowed with treatment.