The nurse is helping develop a plan of care for a patient that has advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
The patient will be taking a new medication.
Which is a realistic goal for this patient?

Choice A rationale

Asking the patient what time of day the medication is taken can help identify if taking it at a different time might alleviate sleep disturbances. SSRIs like sertraline can cause insomnia if taken later in the day.

Choice B rationale

Recommending a weekly dosage is inappropriate and could potentially disrupt the therapeutic effect. SSRIs should be taken daily, as prescribed.

Choice C rationale

Counseling the patient to take the medication at bedtime could worsen sleep disturbances, as sertraline may cause insomnia in some individuals. Timing should be adjusted based on patient response.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting a lower dose without consulting the provider may not address the issue effectively and could reduce the efficacy of the medication. Dosage adjustments should be made based on clinical assessment and provider recommendation.

Choice A rationale

Using an “ouch” scale, such as the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale, is appropriate for young children. It allows them to express their pain intensity in a way that is understandable and relatable to their age group.

Choice B rationale

Encouraging a six-year-old to request pain medication may not be effective, as they might not understand when they need it or might be reluctant to ask.

Choice C rationale

Waiting to administer pain medication until the child begins to cry can delay pain relief, leading to unnecessary discomfort and anxiety.

Choice D rationale

Asking a young child to rate their pain on a scale of 1 to 10 might be confusing and less effective than using a more child-friendly method like the “ouch” scale.