During a routine office visit, a nurse is obtaining an older adult client’s vital signs and notices the caregiver is very quiet and withdrawn.
When asked, the caregiver acknowledges feeling exhausted from caring for the client 24 hours a day. What is the best information for the nurse to provide?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

Respite care is a service that provides temporary relief to primary caregivers, allowing them time to rest and take care of their own needs. It can be provided in the client’s home, a healthcare facility, or an adult day care center. This service is especially beneficial for caregivers who are feeling exhausted, as it offers them a break while ensuring that their loved ones continue to receive care. Therefore, suggesting that social services be contacted to find a respite care facility for the client would be the best information for the nurse to provide.

Choice B rationale

Hiring a private nurse, also known as concierge nursing, is another option for providing relief to caregivers. However, this option might not be feasible for all families due to the potential cost. Moreover, it might not provide the caregiver with the same level of relief as respite care, as the caregiver might still feel obligated to be involved in the client’s care.

Choice C rationale

A case management evaluation of the client’s home environment could be helpful in assessing the client’s needs and identifying potential resources or modifications that could make caregiving easier. However, this does not directly address the caregiver’s need for rest and relief from their duties.

Choice D rationale

Recommending that the client’s family return to the area to help provide assistance could potentially provide some relief to the caregiver. However, this might not be a feasible or immediate solution, as it depends on the family’s availability and willingness to relocate or travel.