To prevent malnutrition in older clients with dementia, which of the following would benefit your client? (Select all that apply.)

A. The conservator will function in the same capacity as a health care proxy.
Explanation: A conservator and a health care proxy serve different roles. A conservator is appointed by a court to manage financial affairs, while a health care proxy is designated to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual if they are unable to do so. These roles are not interchangeable.

B. This client does not have the capacity to give informed consent for any procedures.
Explanation: The presence of a conservator alone does not automatically indicate a lack of capacity to give informed consent. Capacity for making healthcare decisions is determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on the client's cognitive and decision-making abilities.

C. The presence of a conservator does not mean the client cannot give informed consent.
Explanation: Having a court-appointed conservator to manage finances does not automatically imply that the client lacks the capacity to provide informed consent for medical procedures. The ability to make healthcare decisions, including giving informed consent, is distinct from financial capacity. Even if a conservator is appointed for financial matters, the client may still have the capacity to participate in decisions related to their health and medical treatment.

D. The nurse needs to provide all educational materials to the conservator instead of the client.
Explanation: Educational materials related to the client's healthcare should be provided directly to the client whenever possible. While the conservator may be involved in financial matters, the client should still receive relevant information regarding their health and medical care.

A. Defecation less than once each day is not necessarily constipation.

Explanation: The frequency of bowel movements varies among individuals, and defecating less than once each day does not necessarily indicate constipation. Normal bowel habits can differ, and what is considered regular for one person may not be the same for another. Constipation is better assessed by considering other factors such as stool consistency, straining during bowel movements, and feelings of incomplete evacuation.

B. Leaking liquid feces should be treated as diarrhea.

Explanation: Leaking liquid feces may be indicative of diarrhea, but it is not the only factor to consider. The cause of diarrhea should be investigated, and treatment will depend on the underlying reason, which may include infections, medications, or other medical conditions.

C. Mineral oil is recommended as a laxative for the older adult.

Explanation: Mineral oil is generally not recommended as a laxative for older adults. It can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and may have adverse effects. There are other safer and more effective laxative options that healthcare providers may recommend.

D. Excessive sleep can be a symptom of constipation.

Explanation: Excessive sleep is not typically considered a symptom of constipation. Constipation is more commonly associated with symptoms such as infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, and abdominal discomfort. Sleep disturbances may have various causes, but they are not a direct symptom of constipation.