A patient at the clinic says, "I always walk after dinner, but lately my leg cramps and hurts after just a few minutes. The pain goes away after I stop walking, though." Which focused assessment would the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Consulting with the speech-language pathologist for a swallowing evaluation is essential because the client has occasional dysphagia. Swallowing difficulties can lead to aspiration and other complications, and a proper evaluation can help determine the safest diet and interventions.
Choice B reason: Placing the client on the hospital's fall precautions protocol is crucial due to the client's orthostatic hypotension and use of a walker. These factors increase the risk of falls, and implementing fall precautions can help prevent injuries.
Choice C reason: Obtaining a prescription for a different antihypertensive medication is not indicated in this scenario. There is no information provided that suggests the current medication is inappropriate or ineffective. The focus should be on managing the client's orthostatic hypotension with non-pharmacological interventions.
Choice D reason: Reminding the nursing staff to place the client in a sitting position during meals is important to reduce the risk of aspiration due to dysphagia. Sitting upright can help ensure that food and liquids are swallowed safely.
Choice E reason: Referring the client for physical and occupational therapy evaluations is necessary to address the client's functional mobility and ability to perform ADLs. These therapies can help optimize the client's independence and safety.
Choice F reason: Placing the client on a liquid diet to prevent choking is not appropriate without a swallowing evaluation. The speech-language pathologist should determine the safest diet based on the client's specific needs and swallowing abilities.
Choice G reason: Performing orthostatic blood pressure checks is important for monitoring and managing the client's orthostatic hypotension. Regular checks can help identify changes in blood pressure and guide interventions to prevent falls and related complications.

Choice A reason: Asking the patient why the wandering episodes have occurred might not be effective because patients with Alzheimer's disease often have memory and cognitive impairments that make it difficult for them to understand or articulate the reasons for their behavior. Additionally, it may not address the immediate safety concerns associated with wandering.
Choice B reason: Placing the patient in a room close to the nurse's station is a practical and effective measure to enhance patient safety. Proximity to the nurse's station allows for closer supervision and quicker response if the patient attempts to wander. This action helps prevent potential accidents and ensures that the patient receives timely interventions if needed. It is a proactive approach to managing the wandering behavior commonly seen in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C reason: Reorienting the patient several times daily is an important aspect of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, as it can help reduce confusion and anxiety. However, this alone may not be sufficient to prevent wandering. While reorientation is beneficial, the immediate safety of the patient requires additional measures, such as close supervision.
Choice D reason: Having the family bring in familiar items can provide comfort and a sense of security for the patient, which is important in managing Alzheimer's disease. Familiar objects may help reduce anxiety and agitation, but they do not directly address the safety concerns associated with wandering. This action should be part of a comprehensive care plan that includes measures to prevent wandering and ensure patient safety.