Question

A nurse is assessing a client who has stage 4 alzheimer's disease. which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Improved memory and cognitive function
Increased ability to perform complex tasks
Enhanced communication skills
Severe memory loss and disorientation

Answer 1

In stage 4 Alzheimer's disease, a nurse should expect to see severe memory loss and disorientation in a client. This stage is characterized by significant cognitive deficits, where the individual's ability to recognize family, communicate effectively, and conduct daily activities is highly compromised.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a client who has stage 4 Alzheimer's disease should expect to find the symptom of severe memory loss and disorientation. Stage 4 is considered moderate Alzheimer's, where increasing damage to the brain results in significant deficits in cognitive functions. Patients in this stage may not recognize family members, wander and get lost, and have trouble conducting daily activities.

In severe Alzheimer's, which refers to the advanced stages beyond stage 4, there is extensive brain damage. Affected individuals are usually unable to recognize family members, have severely impaired communication skills, and are fully dependent on others for care. The hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer's disease overall include disruptive memory loss, confusion about time or place, inability to plan or execute tasks, and personality changes, all of which are magnified in the later stages.

Answer 2

Option d. Severe memory loss and disorientation is the correct option.

In stage 4 Alzheimer's disease, the nurse should anticipate severe memory loss and disorientation in the client.

In stage 4 Alzheimer's disease, the nurse should expect severe memory loss and disorientation in the client. This stage is characterized by a significant decline in cognitive function, including marked memory impairment, disorientation regarding time and place, difficulty with complex tasks, and challenges in communication.

The client may struggle to recall recent events, have difficulty recognizing familiar faces, experience profound confusion, and face increasing difficulties in daily activities due to cognitive decline.