The nurse is caring for a client with advanced Alzheimer disease. Which techniques are appropriate when speaking with this client? Select all that apply. A)Ask open-ended questions B)Face the client while speaking C)Speak in a loud voice D)Turn off the television and close the door E)Use simple statements and questions

Question

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Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes reduced cognitive function (dementia) in older individuals (most commonly age >60). Conversation becomes progressively more difficult, and the client experiences word-finding difficulty. The best way for the nurse to obtain information and communicate is to use simple statements and questions (Option E). Facing the client allows the client to visualize the speaker's face and helps reduce distraction (Option B). Providing a quiet environment (eg, turning off the television, closing the door) removes competing or distracting stimuli (Option D). (Option A) Asking open-ended questions is a valuable communication technique for collecting information from most clients, but it may confuse the client with AD. The nurse should instead ask simple, direct questions. (Option C) AD results in a reduction in cognitive function. Speaking loudly does not improve comprehension and may increase anxiety and confusion. Educational objective: When speaking with a client with Alzheimer disease, the nurse should face the client and use clear, simple statements and questions. Facing the client allows the client to visualize the speaker's face and helps reduce distraction. The nurse should also maintain a quiet environment to reduce competing or distracting stimuli.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Advanced Alzheimer