The partner of an older adult client who has Alzheimer's disease reports that he is not eating. The nurse observes that the client's partner refuses to assist the client with feeding. The partner insists that the client feed himself without help. Which of the following is the priority action the nurse should take?

Choice A reason: Asking the client if they have been thinking about harming themselves is not the best response, as it may sound accusatory or judgmental. It may also make the client defensive or reluctant to share their feelings. The nurse should assess the client's suicide risk later, after establishing rapport and trust.

Choice B reason: Asking the client how long they have been feeling this way is not the most appropriate response, as it may imply that the nurse is more interested in the duration of the problem than the client's current situation. It may also suggest that the nurse expects the client to have a clear timeline of their feelings, which may not be the case.

Choice C reason: Telling the client to share what is going on with them right now is the best response, as it shows empathy and genuine interest in the client's perspective. It also invites the client to express their thoughts and emotions, and helps the nurse identify the factors that contribute to the client's sense of meaninglessness.

Choice D reason: Asking the client if they really think their life has no purpose is not a helpful response, as it may sound dismissive or sarcastic. It may also make the client feel invalidated or misunderstood, and reinforce their negative beliefs. The nurse should avoid challenging the client's statements, and instead explore the reasons behind them.

Choice A reason:This is a correct recommendation. The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises adults aged 40–64 to have a comprehensive eye exam every 2 years. Regular exams are essential to detect common age-related conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. After age 65, annual eye exams are often recommended.

Choice B reason: You should have your hearing screened every 10 years, not every 5 years, until the age of 50. After 50, you should have a hearing test every 3 years.

Choice C reason:While stool-based testing for colorectal cancer (such as FOBT or FIT) is recommended starting at age 45, it is typically done annually, not every other year. Other screening methods, like a colonoscopy, may have a longer interval but should follow guidelines tailored to the patient’s risk profile.

Choice D reason: You should have your fasting blood glucose level checked every 3 years, not every 6 years, starting at age 45. This is a screening test for diabetes, which can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications. If you have a history of gestational diabetes, obesity, or other risk factors, you may need more frequent testing.