A Client Diagnosed Recently with AD Is Prescribed Donepezil (Aricept)

question 18

Multiple Choice

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

• 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."