A nurse is teaching the family of a client who has Alzheimer’s disease about caring for the client at home. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
A.
Cover electrical outlets in the client’s home with tape.
B.
Hang a monthly calendar in the client’s bedroom.
C.
Keep the client’s bedroom dark at night.
D.
Place a large-face clock in the client’s bedroom.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Place a large-face clock in the client’s bedroom.
Explanation:
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform daily activities. As the disease advances, clients experience increasing disorientation to time, place, and person. This disorientation can result in confusion, anxiety, and agitation. Placing a large-face clock in the client’s bedroom helps promote orientation by reminding the client of the time and date, which can reduce confusion and provide some sense of security.
The clock should be large, simple, and easy to read with clear numerals, and it may even display both the date and time. This visual cue helps clients maintain a sense of routine and reduces their disorientation, particularly in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s disease when memory deficits become more pronounced. By having such visual aids, caregivers can help clients remain somewhat oriented and comfortable in their environment.
Why the other options are incorrect:
- A. Cover electrical outlets in the client’s home with tape: This is not recommended because tape can be easily removed by the client, which would not adequately ensure their safety. Instead, more secure safety measures, such as childproof outlet covers, are more appropriate in preventing the client from accidentally inserting objects into electrical outlets.
- B. Hang a monthly calendar in the client’s bedroom: While calendars can be useful, clients with Alzheimer’s disease may not retain the ability to use a monthly calendar effectively as the disease progresses. A daily calendar or other simple reminders might be more appropriate for maintaining orientation.
- C. Keep the client’s bedroom dark at night: Keeping the room completely dark can increase disorientation and lead to nighttime confusion, which is common in Alzheimer’s clients. A dim nightlight is typically recommended to provide a sense of security and prevent falls if the client gets up during the night.
In summary, providing a large-face clock offers the client a tool for maintaining orientation, promoting routine, and reducing confusion, all of which are crucial in managing Alzheimer’s disease at home.