A nurse is collecting a health history on a client who has a diagnosis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is an expected history associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

Choice A rationale:

Misplacing car keys is a common occurrence in many people's lives and is not necessarily indicative of Alzheimer's disease. It can happen to anyone due to various factors like stress or distraction.

Choice B rationale:

Difficulty performing familiar tasks is a potential early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. This can include tasks that the person previously did with ease, such as cooking or dressing themselves. Alzheimer's disease affects cognitive abilities, including the ability to perform familiar tasks.

Choice C rationale:

Losing sense of time is another potential early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. People with Alzheimer's may lose track of days or seasons, as the disease impacts their sense of time and memory.

Choice D rationale:

Problems with performing basic calculations can be a sign of cognitive decline, but it is not one of the primary early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. This choice is less specific to Alzheimer's and could be related to other cognitive disorders as well.

Choice E rationale:

Becoming lost in a usually familiar environment is a significant early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. Individuals with Alzheimer's may become disoriented even in places they know well, leading to confusion and anxiety. This is a result of the disease affecting their spatial memory and navigation skills.

The correct answer is choice D: "If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory."

Choice A rationale:

If the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, healthcare workers are not required to report it. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters, and their primary responsibility is to protect the safety and well-being of the child. Regardless of whether the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, suspicion of abuse requires reporting.

Choice B rationale:

Evidence must exist before reporting. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. While concrete evidence can strengthen a case, it is not a prerequisite for reporting suspected child abuse. Reporting is based on reasonable suspicion, not proof. Healthcare workers should err on the side of caution and report any concerns.

Choice C rationale:

I don't want to defame someone if the report is false. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Reporting suspected child abuse is not about defaming someone, but rather about ensuring the safety of the child. Reporting is a part of the legal and ethical obligations of healthcare workers to protect vulnerable individuals.

Choice D rationale:

If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory. Rationale: This statement is correct. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters and have a duty to report suspected child abuse to appropriate authorities. Reporting is necessary when there is reasonable suspicion, even if definitive evidence is not yet present.