A nursing instructor is teaching about donepezil (Aricept). A student asks, "How does this work? Will this cure Alzheimer's disease (AD)?" Which appropriate statement will the instructor make?
"Donepezil (Aricept) encourages production of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."
"Donepezil (Aricept) delays the destruction of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
"Donepezil (Aricept) delays the destruction of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
"Donepezil (Aricept) encourages production of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Donepezil (Aricept) encourages production of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease.": This statement is partially correct. Donepezil inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine rather than encouraging its production. However, it correctly states that it delays the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
B. "Donepezil (Aricept) delays the destruction of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease.": This is incorrect because Alzheimer's disease primarily involves acetylcholine, not dopamine.
C. "Donepezil (Aricept) delays the destruction of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease.": This is the correct statement. Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that helps maintain acetylcholine levels in the brain, which is important for memory and cognitive function. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease but can slow its progression.
D. "Donepezil (Aricept) encourages production of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease.": This is incorrect because donepezil does not affect dopamine levels significantly in the context of Alzheimer's disease.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Rotate staff to prevent caregiver role strain: Consistency in caregivers is crucial for dementia patients to minimize confusion and anxiety. Frequent changes in caregivers can be unsettling for them.
B. Limit the client's choices for daily activities: Simplifying choices helps to reduce decision-making pressure and confusion, which can be beneficial for dementia patients.
C. Provide a cognitively stimulating environment: While cognitive stimulation is beneficial, it must be balanced with the need for a calm, non-overstimulating environment to avoid overwhelming the patient.
D. Use confrontation to manage negative behavior: Confrontation is generally not effective and can increase agitation and confusion in dementia patients. Non-confrontational approaches are preferred.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Clozapine (Clozaril): Clozapine is an antipsychotic used primarily for schizophrenia, not for cognitive improvement in Alzheimer's disease. It is not indicated for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
B. Galantamine (Razadyne): Galantamine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used to improve cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which helps with memory and cognitive processes.
C. Olanzapine (Zyprexa): Olanzapine is an antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is not used for cognitive enhancement in Alzheimer's disease and may actually worsen cognitive function in some cases.
D. Sertraline (Zoloft): Sertraline is an antidepressant used primarily for depression and anxiety disorders. It is not indicated for the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
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