A nurse is caring for a client who has dementia and is experiencing an increased number of falls. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Thought-stopping is a cognitive behavioral technique used to interrupt and replace negative or distressing thoughts. However, it is not directly related to reminiscence therapy. Reminiscence therapy focuses on stimulating memories and promoting positive reflections on past experiences rather than blocking thoughts.
B. Creating a unit calendar can be a helpful strategy to promote orientation to time and events for older adults, especially those who may have memory impairments. While this is a valuable activity for maintaining orientation, it is not specifically reminiscence therapy. Reminiscence therapy involves recalling and discussing personal memories rather than focusing on current events.

C. Playing board games can indeed enhance cognition by stimulating various cognitive functions such as problem-solving, memory, and social interaction. However, it is not considered reminiscence therapy. Reminiscence therapy involves specific guided discussions or activities that evoke memories from the past, which can promote emotional well-being and socialization through shared experiences.
D. This is the most appropriate strategy for reminiscence therapy. Discussing childhood memories encourages older adults to recall and share past experiences, fostering a sense of identity, meaning, and connection. It can also enhance self-esteem and provide opportunities for social interaction within a therapeutic context.

A. This statement indicates that the client has abstained from alcohol while on haloperidol decanoate. This is a positive statement and shows compliance with recommendations, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. There is no immediate concern with this statement.
B. Haloperidol can increase sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Spending several hours outside gardening in the sun could potentially increase the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions due to photosensitivity. The nurse should address this statement by educating the client about the need to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours.
C. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is generally recommended for clients taking haloperidol, as it can occasionally cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as a side effect. Checking blood pressure once a week is a reasonable frequency, but the nurse should ensure that the client understands the signs and symptoms of hypotension and knows when to seek medical attention if blood pressure readings are abnormal.
D. Chewing sugar-free gum is generally not contraindicated while taking haloperidol. However, if the gum contains caffeine or other stimulants, it could potentially exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as tremors or restlessness. The nurse should inquire further about the type of gum being used and educate the client about potential interactions or side effects.