A female comes to the Emergency Department with a broken wrist and severe bruises from a beating by her husband. She states that she does not want to leave the relationship at this time. The most appropriate response by the nurse is:

A. A cry for sympathy is an oversimplified interpretation of the comment. While the statement might reflect feelings of sadness, it should not be assumed to be merely seeking sympathy. The focus should be on the underlying concerns of loss and despair.
B. Normal grieving refers to the emotional response to the loss of loved ones, which can involve feelings of sadness, but the comment reflects more than just grief. The man mentions financial concerns, declining health, and the loss of significant people in his life, which may point to a deeper sense of hopelessness or despair that goes beyond normal grieving.
C. Normal negativity of older adults is a stereotype and does not accurately reflect the individual's situation. While some older adults may experience negative feelings due to various life challenges, it is important to distinguish between normal aging-related sadness and more serious emotional distress or mental health concerns.
D. Evidence of suicide risk is the most concerning interpretation. The comment includes elements of hopelessness ("My money is running out, and my health is failing") and isolation ("My family and friends are all dead"), which can be indicators of a risk for suicide. Older adults are at an increased risk for suicide, especially when they experience multiple losses, declining health, and financial difficulties.

A. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, but it is not the most common cause of dementia. While some people with multiple sclerosis may develop cognitive changes, it is not a primary cause of dementia.
B. Brain injury can result in cognitive impairments and changes in memory, but it is not the most common cause of dementia. Traumatic brain injury may lead to a type of dementia known as post-traumatic dementia, but it is relatively rare compared to Alzheimer's disease.
C. Huntington chorea (also called Huntington's disease) is a genetic disorder that leads to progressive movement, cognitive, and psychiatric problems. It can cause dementia, but it is a much less common cause compared to Alzheimer's disease.
D. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for the majority of cases. Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior, ultimately impairing a person’s ability to perform daily activities.