A home health nurse is making a home visit to a client who has Alzheimer's disease and the client's partner. Which of the following observations indicates to the nurse that the partner is experiencing caregiver role strain?

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should prioritize the safety and well-being of both clients involved. Assisting the client with late-stage Alzheimer's disease to the correct room is important to prevent any further confusion or distress. Alzheimer's disease often causes cognitive impairment, memory loss, and disorientation, which can lead to situations where the individual may not recognize their surroundings or the people around them. Guiding the client back to their own room will help reduce confusion, agitation, and potential conflicts with other clients.

Choice B rationale:

Medicating the patient with antipsychotics is not the most appropriate initial action in this situation. Antipsychotic medications are often used to manage severe behavioral disturbances associated with conditions like schizophrenia or dementia, but their use should be carefully considered due to potential side effects. In this scenario, addressing the immediate situation and guiding the client back to their room is more appropriate than resorting to medication.

Choice C rationale:

Moving the client to a room at the end of the hall is not the best choice because it doesn't directly address the current situation. While changing the client's room might be considered in some cases to reduce agitation or wandering, it's not the immediate action needed when the client is found in another client's bed. Guiding the client to the correct room is the priority.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the client in restraints is not an appropriate choice in this situation. Restraints should only be used as a last resort for ensuring the safety of the client or others when less restrictive interventions have failed. Placing a client with Alzheimer's disease in restraints can be traumatic and lead to increased agitation and psychological distress.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse's approach of sitting with the client and offering simple, direct information is appropriate for a newly admitted client diagnosed with severe depression. This approach allows the nurse to establish a therapeutic rapport and provide the client with essential information in a clear and concise manner. People with severe depression often have difficulty processing complex information, so providing simple and direct information can enhance their understanding and alleviate any feelings of overwhelm.

Choice B rationale:

Explaining the unit policies and answering the client's questions might be overwhelming for someone with severe depression during their initial orientation. People experiencing depression often have difficulties with concentration and retaining information due to cognitive impairment. Presenting them with detailed policies and procedures might increase their anxiety and hinder their ability to absorb the information effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Having the client attend group therapy immediately might not be the best approach for someone with severe depression upon admission. Group therapy could be beneficial later in the treatment process, but initially, the client might not be emotionally ready to engage in group interactions. It's essential to establish a one-on-one therapeutic relationship and provide a stable environment before introducing them to group settings.

Choice D rationale:

Taking the client on a tour of the unit and introducing them to all the staff members on duty might be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing for someone with severe depression. It's crucial to approach the client with sensitivity and respect their emotional state. Introducing them to multiple staff members might increase their social anxiety and make them feel exposed, leading to further distress.