A 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?

A) Decreased display of emotions:

While changes in emotional expression can occur in individuals with dementia, it's not a primary manifestation that is typically emphasized when educating families. Behavioral and psychological symptoms, including changes in emotion and personality, can be seen in dementia, but forgetfulness progressing to disorientation is a more direct and characteristic symptom of the condition.

B) Forgetfulness gradually progressing to disorientation

Explanation:

When educating the family of a client with dementia, the nurse should inform them to expect forgetfulness that gradually progresses to disorientation. Dementia is a progressive cognitive decline that affects memory, thinking, and reasoning. Forgetfulness is often one of the initial symptoms of dementia, and as the condition advances, individuals can become disoriented to time, place, and even people. This progression occurs due to the degeneration of brain cells and the accumulation of abnormal proteins.

C) Personality traits that are opposite of original traits:

Changes in personality traits can indeed occur as a result of dementia, but this may not be the most prominent or early manifestation that the nurse would want to highlight when educating the family. The gradual progression of forgetfulness leading to disorientation is a more specific and foundational aspect of dementia.

D) Decreased auditory and visual acuity:

Decreased sensory acuity, such as auditory and visual acuity, can happen with age and various health conditions, but they are not primary manifestations of dementia. Dementia primarily affects cognitive functions like memory, thinking, and reasoning.

A) "I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs."

While the concern about not having gotten her period yet is a valid one, it's a common experience during adolescence. Variability in the timing of puberty is normal, and addressing this concern might involve providing reassurance and education about the natural range of development.

B) "There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it."

While concerns about physical appearance are common during adolescence, they are less urgent in terms of emotional and psychological well-being. Addressing body image issues is important, but the statement about lack of social acceptance and reciprocal liking indicates potentially deeper emotional challenges.

C) "None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either."

Explanation:

Adolescence is a time of significant emotional and social development. The statement about not being liked by other students and not liking them in return indicates potential social isolation and difficulties in forming positive relationships. Adolescents often seek social acceptance and peer relationships are crucial for their well-being and development.

D) "My parents treat me like a baby sometimes."

This statement suggests a common parent-adolescent dynamic where there might be conflicts about independence and autonomy. While these feelings are valid, they don't necessarily reflect a higher priority concern related to social isolation and peer relationships.