A client who is receiving zidovudine reports the appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin. Which result should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?

Certain medications can contribute to constipation as a side effect. Reviewing the client's medication list will help identify any potential medications that may be causing or exacerbating constipation.

Understanding the client's current approach to managing constipation, such as dietary changes, laxative use, or other remedies, will provide insight into their self-care practices and effectiveness of current interventions.

Diet plays a crucial role in bowel regularity. Assessing the client's dietary habits, including fiber intake and hydration, can help identify potential factors contributing to constipation.

Physical activity and exercise promote bowel regularity by stimulating intestinal motility. Evaluating the client's level of physical activity and exercise routine can provide information on their overall mobility and potential impact on bowel function.

The next scheduled visit with the healthcare provider may be important for the overall management of the client's health but may not be directly related to formulating a plan of care specifically for constipation.

Given the client's difficulty with memory, concentration, and recent life changes, it is

important for the nurse to acknowledge the possibility of delirium as a potential cause of the client's symptoms. Delirium is an acute state of confusion that can be caused by various factors, including physical illness, medication side effects, and emotional stressors. It is often reversible when the underlying cause is identified and treated.

By mentioning the possibility of delirium and its potential reversibility, the nurse opens up the conversation to exploring other factors that may be contributing to the client's symptoms. This response also provides hope to the family by suggesting that the client's condition may improve with appropriate interventions and management.

Stating that dementia resulting from Alzheimer's disease is often reversible even in the late stages is incorrect. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that currently has no cure, and the symptoms tend to worsen over time.

Reversibility is not typically associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Indicating that the client's symptoms of dementia are permanent due to age is a generalization and may not be accurate. While age is a risk factor for certain types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, it does not mean that all memory and cognitive difficulties in older adults are irreversible.

Suggesting that delirium is often a sign of underlying mental illness and institutionalization is necessary is not appropriate. Delirium is a medical condition that requires thorough assessment and appropriate management, including addressing any underlying causes. Institutionalization may be considered in certain situations, but it is not the primary focus of communication in this context.