The spouse of a 67-year-old male patient with early stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) tells the nurse, "I am exhausted from worrying all the time. I don't know what to do." Which actions are best for the nurse to take next (select all that apply)?
a. Suggest that a long-term care facility be considered.
b. Offer ideas for ways to distract or redirect the patient.
c. Teach the spouse about adult day care as a possible respite.
d. Suggest that the spouse consult with the physician for antianxiety drugs.
e. Ask the spouse what she knows and has considered about dementia care options.
ANS: B, C, E
The stress of being a caregiver can be managed with a multicomponent approach. This includes respite care, learning ways to manage challenging behaviors, and further assessment of what the spouse may already have considered for care options. The patient is in the early stages and does not need long-term placement. Antianxiety medications may be appropriate, but other measures should be tried first.
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