The nurse is providing teaching for the family of a patient who has been newly diagnosed with Alzheimer disease (AD). Which statement by the family member indicates understanding of the teaching?
“Alzheimer disease affects memory but not personality.”
“With proper treatment, symptoms of this disease can be arrested.”
“The onset of Alzheimer disease is usually between 65 and 75 years.”
“Alzheimer disease is a chronic, progressive condition.”
The Correct Answer is D
A) “Alzheimer disease affects memory but not personality.”
While memory loss is one of the hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, the condition also significantly impacts other cognitive functions, including personality and behavior. As the disease progresses, patients often experience changes in mood, behavior, and personality, such as increased irritability, depression, or aggression.
B) “With proper treatment, symptoms of this disease can be arrested.”
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and while some treatments (like cholinesterase inhibitors) can help manage symptoms temporarily or slow their progression, the disease itself is not arrestable. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, but it cannot stop the disease from advancing.
C) “The onset of Alzheimer disease is usually between 65 and 75 years.”
While Alzheimer’s disease typically affects older adults, this statement is too narrow. Alzheimer’s disease can begin earlier, sometimes in individuals in their 50s or 60s, particularly in cases of early-onset Alzheimer’s. The average age of onset for most people is around 65, but there is variability.
D) “Alzheimer disease is a chronic, progressive condition.”
Alzheimer’s disease is indeed chronic (lasting for years) and progressive (it worsens over time). It gradually destroys brain cells, leading to a decline in cognitive function, including memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. This is the fundamental nature of the disease
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Norepinephrine: Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter primarily involved in the sympathetic nervous system. It is not involved in terminating the stimulation caused by acetylcholine. Norepinephrine acts on adrenergic receptors, whereas acetylcholine primarily acts on cholinergic receptors.
B) Decarboxylase: Decarboxylase is an enzyme that plays a role in the synthesis of certain neurotransmitters, including dopamine, but it does not have a role in terminating the action of acetylcholine at the effector cell. It is unrelated to the termination of acetylcholine signaling.
C) Catecholamine: Catecholamines (such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine) are a group of neurotransmitters involved in the sympathetic nervous system. While they play a role in synaptic transmission, they are not responsible for breaking down acetylcholine or terminating its effects. Their primary function is in adrenergic signaling.
D) Acetylcholinesterase: Acetylcholinesterase is the correct enzyme. It is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine (ACh) in the synaptic cleft after it has stimulated the effector cell. By hydrolyzing acetylcholine into acetate and choline, acetylcholinesterase effectively terminates the signal and allows the effector cell's membrane to repolarize. This action prevents continuous stimulation and ensures proper function of the cholinergic system.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Beta 1-receptors:
Beta 1-receptors are primarily found in the heart, and their stimulation leads to increased heart rate and contractility. These receptors are not typically involved in vasoconstriction, pupil dilation, or piloerection.
B) Beta 2-receptors:
Beta 2-receptors are primarily located in smooth muscles such as the bronchi and blood vessels. Their stimulation causes smooth muscle relaxation, leading to bronchodilation and vasodilation. Beta 2-receptors are not responsible for the effects of vasoconstriction, piloerection, or pupil dilation described in the question, making this option incorrect.
C) Alpha 2-receptors:
Alpha 2-receptors are involved in the inhibition of norepinephrine release and play a role in regulating sympathetic tone. They are not primarily responsible for vasoconstriction or the other physiological responses listed in the question. Alpha 2-stimulation typically results in decreased sympathetic activity, not the effects described here.
D) Alpha 1-receptors:
Alpha 1-receptors are located on smooth muscle, including the blood vessels, and their stimulation results in vasoconstriction. They are also involved in other actions such as piloerection (hair standing on end), pupil dilation (mydriasis), and closure of the salivary sphincter. Additionally, they play a role in male sexual emission (ejaculation). The physiological responses described in the question—vasoconstriction, piloerection, pupil dilation, and male sexual emission—are all consistent with alpha 1-receptor stimulation.
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