The nurse plans care to prevent a dangerous thermal environment for an older adult client who lives in a northern climate of the United States. Which client assessment data does the nurse recognize that can contribute to the risk of hypothermia? (Select all that apply.)

A. Making refreshment stations readily available

Explanation: Making refreshment stations readily available can encourage individuals with dementia to access snacks and beverages independently. This can help ensure a consistent intake of calories and nutrients throughout the day.

B. Caloric supplements with the meals

Explanation: Caloric supplements can provide additional nutrients and energy, especially if the client has difficulty consuming an adequate amount of food during meals. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended to determine the appropriate type and amount of supplements.

C. Providing feeding assistance

Explanation: Offering feeding assistance, such as help with cutting food into manageable pieces or providing cueing and encouragement during meals, can support individuals with dementia in maintaining proper nutrition.

D. Optimal social supports

Explanation: Optimal social supports, including family members, caregivers, or support groups, can play a crucial role in monitoring the nutritional status of individuals with dementia. Social interactions during meals can positively impact eating behaviors, and caregivers can provide assistance and encouragement.

A. Because a conservatorship is the least restrictive alternative, a court hearing is not required.

Explanation: This statement is not accurate. Conservatorships are legal arrangements that involve the appointment of a conservator to manage the financial affairs and assets of an individual who is unable to do so themselves. While conservatorships may be necessary for the protection of the individual, they are not automatically considered the least restrictive alternative, and a court hearing is typically required to establish one.

B. The most legally restricting way individuals and property can be handled are through conservatorships and guardianships.

Explanation: This statement is partially true. Conservatorships and guardianships are legal mechanisms that grant authority to individuals (conservators and guardians, respectively) to manage the affairs of someone who is unable to do so themselves. While they involve legal restrictions, whether they are the most restrictive or not can depend on the specific details of the arrangement and the jurisdiction.

C. A conservatorship entails control over property, whereas a guardianship entails control over the person.

Explanation: This statement is true. In general, a conservatorship focuses on managing the financial affairs and assets of an individual, while a guardianship involves decision-making authority over personal and healthcare matters. The roles and responsibilities of conservators and guardians may vary by jurisdiction, but the distinction between control over property and control over the person is a common principle.

D. Conservators cannot be members of the conservatee's (client's) family.

Explanation: This statement is not universally true. In many cases, family members can be appointed as conservators. The court will typically consider the best interests of the individual in need of protection when appointing a conservator, and a family member may be deemed suitable if they can fulfill the responsibilities of the role. The specific rules regarding who can be a conservator may vary by jurisdiction.