30 Questions
Which medication is indicated for severe Alzheimer's disease?
Rivastigmine tartrate
How do cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil hydrochloride and rivastigmine tartrate work in Alzheimer's disease?
They enhance acetylcholine uptake in the brain
What is the primary goal in managing Alzheimer's disease?
Manage the cognitive and behavioral symptoms
How long may cognitive ability improve within therapy with cholinesterase inhibitors?
6-12 months
What intervention can be used to manage behavioral problems such as agitation and psychosis in Alzheimer's disease?
Music therapy
What role do nurses play in the recognition of Alzheimer's disease?
Assessing for signs and symptoms
How should nursing interventions for Alzheimer's disease aim to promote patient function?
By promoting patient function and independence
What should nurses do regarding the documentation of patient responses to medications in Alzheimer's disease?
Document both positive and negative responses
What is the recommended approach if behavioral and other interventions fail to manage associated depression and behavioral problems in Alzheimer's disease?
Consider pharmacological treatment
Which type of patients should be routinely reevaluated for Alzheimer's disease?
All patients with AD
What is an important nursing intervention for Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients?
Promoting physical safety and independence in self-care
What kind of environment helps Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients interpret their surroundings?
A calm, predictable environment with limited stimuli and a regular routine
What is crucial for patient mobility and family peace of mind in Alzheimer's care?
A safe environment at home and in hospital settings
What is prohibited for Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients to ensure safety?
Driving
What can slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease?
Active participation, physical activity, and communication
What can occupational therapists recommend to help Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients?
Ways to simplify tasks and adaptive equipment
What do pathophysiologic changes in the brain make difficult for AD patients?
Maintaining physical independence
What is essential due to AD patients frequently forgetting the meaning of words or having difficulty expressing thoughts?
Clear, easy-to-understand communication
What must family caregivers provide as the patient's cognitive ability declines?
Increasing assistance and supervision
What is an important aspect of patient care to reinforce a positive self-image and adjust goals to fit declining abilities?
Constant emotional support
What type of stimuli are interpreted as signs of affection, concern, and security for patients with dementia?
Tactile stimuli, such as hugs or hand pats
What is encouraged for patients with dementia in terms of socialization?
Socialization with friends through visits, letters, and phone calls
What is important for improving the quality of life for people with dementia?
Recreation and simple activities, such as walking and exercising
What should be encouraged for patients with dementia in relation to sexual activity?
Encouraging patients to talk about any sexual concerns
How should mealtime be kept for patients with dementia?
Simple and calm, without confrontations, and with familiar foods that look appetizing and taste good
What are some behaviors that patients with dementia may exhibit?
Sleep disturbances, wandering, and inappropriate behaviors
Who provides at least 83% of the home care required by patients with Alzheimer's disease?
Family members
What may result from the emotional burden on families of patients with dementia?
Caregiver fatigue, depression, and family dysfunction
What should be done if neglect or abuse of patients with dementia is suspected?
Report to the local adult protective services agency
What does respite care allow for caregivers of patients with dementia?
Short periods away from home while someone else tends to the needs of the patient
Study Notes
Caring for Patients with Dementia
- In earlier stages of dementia, lists and simple written instructions can serve as reminders for patients.
- Tactile stimuli, such as hugs or hand pats, are interpreted as signs of affection, concern, and security for patients with dementia.
- Socialization with friends through visits, letters, and phone calls is encouraged for patients with dementia.
- Recreation and simple activities, such as walking and exercising, are important for improving the quality of life for people with dementia.
- Patients with dementia may continue to enjoy sexual activity and should be encouraged to talk about any sexual concerns.
- Mealtime should be kept simple and calm, without confrontations, and familiar foods that look appetizing and taste good are preferred by patients with dementia.
- Patients with dementia may exhibit sleep disturbances, wandering, and inappropriate behaviors, which are likely to occur when there are unmet underlying physical or psychological needs.
- Family members provide at least 83% of the home care required by patients with Alzheimer's disease.
- Caregiver fatigue, depression, and family dysfunction may result from the emotional burden on families of patients with dementia.
- Neglect or abuse of patients with dementia can occur and must be reported to the local adult protective services agency.
- The Alzheimer’s Association provides family support groups, respite care, and adult day care for patients with dementia.
- Respite care, a commonly provided service, allows caregivers to get away from the home for short periods while someone else tends to the needs of the patient.
Test your knowledge on providing care for patients with dementia with this quiz. Explore essential tips for communication, socialization, recreation, and mealtime, as well as understanding the needs of caregivers and potential risks such as neglect and abuse.
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