A nurse is preparing a client to undergo a cardiac catheterization.
Which of the following tasks should the nurse perform prior to the procedure?

Choice A rationale:

Improved short-term memory. Donepezil is a medication used to treat Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in memory, thinking, and reasoning. Therefore, improved short-term memory is an indication that the medication is effective, as it suggests enhanced cognitive function in the client.

Choice B rationale:

Enhanced mood. While improved mood can be a positive outcome of treating dementia, it is not the primary goal of donepezil therapy. The main focus is on cognitive improvement, particularly in memory and thinking skills. Enhanced mood alone may not be a reliable indicator of the medication's effectiveness in this context.

Choice C rationale:

Can perform ADLs independently. The ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently is an important aspect of a patient's overall well-being. However, this improvement may not solely be attributed to the effects of donepezil. Other factors, such as rehabilitation or support services, can also contribute to the patient's ability to perform ADLs. While it is a positive outcome, it is not a specific indication of donepezil's effectiveness.

Choice D rationale:

Increased food intake. Increased food intake is not a direct effect of donepezil. Donepezil does not have a primary role in regulating appetite or food intake. Therefore, this finding is not a reliable indicator of the medication's effectiveness in treating dementia.

Choice A rationale:

Including any adverse effects of the medications the client might develop is important but does not cover the entire scope of medication reconciliation. It is essential to compare new prescriptions with the list of current medications to prevent drug interactions, duplications, or omissions.

Choice B rationale:

Comparing new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports is the correct approach to medication reconciliation. This helps identify discrepancies, ensuring that the client's current medications are accurately documented and preventing medication errors.

Choice C rationale:

Excluding nutritional supplements from the list of medications the client reports is incorrect. Nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter medications are essential components of the medication list. These items can interact with prescribed medications and affect the client's overall health.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to make his own list after he returns home is not recommended. Patients might not have complete knowledge of the medications they are taking, including dosages and frequencies. Relying solely on the patient-generated list can lead to inaccuracies and potential harm.