The nurse includes information regarding long-term care placement in the discharge materials for the family of a client newly diagnosed with Alzheimer disease. Which is the rationale for providing this information to the family at this time?

Question

A) It often takes 6 to12 months for an individual with Alzheimer disease to establish a successful transfer to a facility, and this will allow adequate time.
B) It's better to address the issue of placement now instead of later.
C) Early introduction to long-term options will allow the client and family time to make a more informed decision.
D) Long-term care placement is inevitable with this diagnosis.

Answer 1

Answer: C

Although placement in a long-term care facility is not going to be the fate of all individuals with Alzheimer disease, it is a common one. Providing the information early in the disease process allows the family to make an informed choice. Nurses will need to provide reinforced education and referrals throughout the disease process, not just during the initial hospitalization. There is no plan to transfer the client at this time; adjustment would occur after the transfer.