Question

A nurse is administering donepezil to a client who has Alzheimer's disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

a. Mild headache.
b. Improved appetite.
c. Increased confusion.
d. Enhanced short-term memory.

Answer 1

The nurse should report 'Increased confusion' immediately, as it may indicate a worsening of Alzheimer's disease or an adverse reaction to donepezil, which is used to slow the progression of Alzheimer's symptoms by enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission.

Step-by-step explanation:

When administrating donepezil, a medication prescribed to manage symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, the nurse should report any significant changes in the patient's condition to the provider. Among the options provided, the finding that should be reported immediately is c. Increased confusion. This could indicate a worsening of the disease or an adverse effect of the medication. Donepezil works as a cholinesterase inhibitor, enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission to help slow the progression of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Though there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, treatments aim to manage disruptive memory loss, confusion, and other cognitive difficulties. Tracking any changes in these symptoms is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the treatment and making necessary adjustments.