The nurse is planning care for a client with moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care?
The nurse is planning care for a client with moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care?
A. Use symbols to assist the client in locating their room.
[70%]
B. Remove calendars and clocks from the client's room.
[4%]
C. Quiz the client about past memories and events.
[17%]
D. Encourage the client to take frequent naps throughout the day.
[8%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Physiological Adaptation
Related Topic
Illness Management
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice A is correct. Clients with moderate AD often have progressive memory loss and visual-spatial deficits. Using visual cues such as symbols, colors, or personalized pictures helps support recognition and orientation, enhancing autonomy and reducing confusion.
Choice B is incorrect. Orientation aids, such as clocks and calendars, should be maintained to help the client stay oriented to time and date, which supports cognitive functioning and reduces agitation or confusion.
Choice C is incorrect. Forcing recall can increase frustration or agitation. While reminiscing can be therapeutic when initiated naturally by the client, “quizzing” is not therapeutic and may lead to distress.
Choice D is incorrect. Excessive daytime napping can disrupt nighttime sleep, leading to sleep disturbances and worsening confusion in the evening (sundowning). A structured routine with appropriate activity is more beneficial.
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2 Key Topics
Therapeutic communication
13.3 Therapeutic Communication & Environment
Additional Info
✓ Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia.
✓ The progressive deterioration of cognitive functioning commonly characterizes AD.
✓ Initial deterioration may be so subtle and insidious that others may not notice it.
✓ In the early stages of the disease, the affected person may be able to compensate for and hide cognitive deficits.
✓ Manifestations of AD include impairment of recent memory, which progresses to remote memory.
✓ As the disease progresses, the client may have impairment in executive functioning, including planning, organizing, and problem-solving.
✓ Additional clinical features of AD include the triple-A (agraphia, agnosia, and apraxia).
✓ Nursing care is aimed at maximizing function and promoting safety. The nurse should also provide caregiver/family support because of the emotional toll of this disorder.
