A nurse who works in a long-term care facility has noticed that one of the residents has been showing signs of impaired cognitive and self-care abilities over the last 2 weeks. The nurse should
1. remember that memory loss is a normal, age-related change.
2. investigate for possible physiologic problems.
3. instruct the staff to be extra attentive, as this person needs more assistance.
4. inform the resident's family that the resident probably has some form of dementia.
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Cognitive impairment that interferes with normal life is not considered part of normal aging. A decline in intellectual abilities that interferes with social or occupational functions should always be regarded as abnormal and be investigated.
Rationale 2: Cognitive impairment that interferes with normal life is not considered part of normal aging. A decline in intellectual abilities that interferes with social or occupational functions should always be regarded as abnormal and be investigated.
Rationale 3: This option does not address the loss of function the client is experiencing.
Rationale 4: This option is premature and not within the scope of nursing practice.
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