The nurse is preparing to apply a topical cream on the arm of a cognitively impaired, anorexic older adult patient in the terminal stage of lung cancer. The nurse carefully monitors the effectiveness of the medication because its effectiveness will be most negatively impacted by the patient's:

A. While it's important to communicate any concerns about medication adherence with the physician, the nurse should first try to address the underlying issue, which in this case is the patient's memory impairment.
B. While decreasing the frequency of medications may be possible in some cases, it's important to consult with the physician before making any changes to the medication regimen.
C. Relying on a family member to administer medications can be problematic, as it may not be feasible for them to do so on a regular basis. It's important for the patient to take responsibility for their own medication management, with the support of the nurse.
D. Memory impairment is a common problem in older adults and can affect medication adherence. Using a pill dispenser can help patients remember when to take their medications. Pill dispensers are often organized by day and time, making it easier for patients to keep track of their medication schedule.

A. Limiting the number of visitors may be a necessary step if the patient is becoming overwhelmed or tired. However, this approach might not consider the cultural significance of extended family and community in Arab American culture, where family involvement is often highly valued.
B. Suggesting shorter visits is a more balanced approach. It acknowledges the patient's need for rest while still respecting the importance of family and community involvement. This action can help manage the patient's fatigue while allowing them to maintain cultural and familial connections. It’s a compromise that accommodates both the patient's health needs and cultural values.
C. Requiring visitors to check in at the front desk can help manage visitor flow and ensure that the patient is not overwhelmed. However, this action does not directly address the issue of visitor duration or frequency, which might still lead to patient fatigue. It also might not align with cultural expectations of openness and hospitality in Arab American culture, where family and visitors are often seen as central to the patient’s well-being.
D. Allowing only family members to visit might help reduce the number of visitors and ensure that the patient receives support from those closest to them. However, this approach may be too restrictive and could potentially isolate the patient from their broader support network, which might be an important aspect of their cultural practices. It also does not address the underlying issue of managing visitor fatigue.