A nurse working on a surgical unit is developing a care plan for a client who has paraplegia. The client has an area of nonblanchable erythema over his ischium. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the care plan?

Choice A reason: Performing ADLs independently is not a specific indicator of donepezil’s effectiveness, as it treats cognitive symptoms in Alzheimer’s, not physical function. While improved cognition may indirectly aid ADLs, this outcome is too broad and not directly tied to the medication’s primary action, making it incorrect.
Choice B reason: Increased food intake is not an expected outcome of donepezil, which targets acetylcholinesterase to improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s. Appetite changes are unrelated to its mechanism, and this finding does not indicate effectiveness, making it an incorrect measure of the drug’s impact.
Choice C reason: Enhanced mood is not a primary effect of donepezil, which focuses on slowing cognitive decline. While mood may improve indirectly, it is not a direct indicator of efficacy. Other medications address mood in Alzheimer’s, making this finding less relevant and incorrect.
Choice D reason: Improved short-term memory is a key indicator of donepezil’s effectiveness, as it increases acetylcholine levels to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s. Enhanced memory reflects the drug’s intended action, aligning with clinical expectations, making this the correct measure of therapeutic success.

Choice A reason: Asking for more information about the surgery indicates the client seeks clarification but does not confirm understanding of informed consent. Informed consent requires comprehension of the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives, with agreement to proceed. This statement reflects curiosity, not confirmation of understanding, making it insufficient to demonstrate informed consent.
Choice B reason: Planning to ask the doctor about the surgery in the operating room suggests the client has not yet received or understood the necessary information. Informed consent must be obtained before entering the operating room, with full comprehension of risks and benefits. This statement indicates a lack of prior understanding, making it incorrect.
Choice C reason: Stating understanding of the risks, benefits, and agreement to the procedure demonstrates informed consent. This reflects that the client has been educated about the knee arthroplasty, including potential complications like infection or blood clots, and alternatives, and voluntarily agrees to proceed. This meets legal and ethical standards, indicating full comprehension and consent.
Choice D reason: Having family sign the consent form is inappropriate unless the client lacks decision-making capacity, which is not indicated. Informed consent requires the competent client’s understanding and agreement. This statement suggests reliance on others, not personal comprehension of the procedure’s risks and benefits, making it an incorrect indicator of understanding.