Question

Which of the following should the nurse use as a basis for explaining the etiology of alzheimer's disease to the family of a patient with this disease?

a. it is a secondary dementia indicated by loss of recent memory and disorientation to time and is a primary dementia that is incurable, irreversible, and fatal.
b. it is associated with the presence of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the is a secondary dementia that is treatable with analysis of the diet and removal of toxic substances in the is a primary dementia characterized by stepwise decreases in cognitive abilities.
c. it is irreversible if not treated with antihypertensive medications.

Answer 1

Alzheimer's disease is a primary dementia associated with amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, leading to neuron loss and cognitive decline. There is no known cure, and treatments aim to manage symptoms. The correct answer is option a.

Step-by-step explanation:

In explaining the etiology of Alzheimer's disease to a patient's family, it is important to note that it is a primary dementia characterized by the progressive death of neurons leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. Alzheimer's disease is associated with the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles within the brain, which are hallmark features of the condition. These changes are linked to the loss of synapses, neuron death, and the presence of certain genetic factors in some forms of the disease, highlighting its complexity and current lack of a cure. Furthermore, Alzheimer's disease is not reversible with antihypertensive medications or dietary changes, and present treatments primarily focus on symptom management.