A Client Diagnosed Recently with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Is Prescribed

question 13

Multiple Choice

A client diagnosed recently with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is prescribed donepezil (Aricept) . The client's spouse inquires, "How does this work? Will this cure him?" Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

• A) "This medication delays the destruction of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
• B) "This medication encourages production of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."
• C) "This medication delays the destruction of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
• D) "This medication encourages production of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."

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Definitions:

Cognitive-Behavioral Approach

A psychological approach that addresses dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and cognitions through a goal-oriented, systematic process.

Unipolar Depression

A major depressive disorder characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or lack of interest, without the mood swings seen in bipolar disorder.

Psychoanalytic Theory

A body of theories developed by Sigmund Freud, which posits that human behavior is the outcome of interactions among various components of the mind, including the id, ego, and superego.

Depression

A common and serious mood disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and/or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.