A nurse is caring for a client who is going through the grieving process. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to meet the client's spiritual needs?

Choice A reason: Initiating hospice care services is generally considered when the client is in the final stages of Alzheimer's disease and has a life expectancy of 6 months or less. Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life, rather than curative treatments. It's an option when the disease has significantly progressed, not typically at the time of initial diagnosis.

Choice B reason: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and is being studied as a potential treatment for improving cognitive status in Alzheimer's patients. However, it is not yet a standard treatment and is considered experimental.

Choice C reason: Barbiturate medications are not typically used to control anxiety in Alzheimer's patients due to the risk of dependency and the potential to worsen cognitive impairment. Other medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are generally preferred for managing anxiety in these patients⁷.

Choice D reason: NMDA receptor antagonists, such as memantine, are medications that can help delay cognitive symptoms in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. They work by regulating the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, which may be overactive in Alzheimer's disease.

Choice A reason: Providing detailed explanations to a client with moderate anxiety might overwhelm them and exacerbate their anxiety. While information is important, too much detail can be counterproductive in this context.

Choice B reason: Using short, simple sentences can help ensure that the client with moderate anxiety comprehends the information without becoming overwhelmed. This approach is conducive to learning and retention, especially when the client is anxious.

Choice C reason: Avoiding asking the client questions may seem like a way to reduce stress, but it can actually hinder engagement and understanding. Questions can help clarify the client's comprehension and provide them with a sense of involvement in their care.

Choice D reason: Showing a 30-minute teaching video might be informative, but it could be too lengthy for a client with moderate anxiety. The client may benefit more from interactive and personalized teaching methods that allow for breaks and questions as needed.