A client with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is receiving trazodone, a recently prescribed atypical antidepressant. The caregiver tells the home health nurse that the client's mood and sleep patterns are improved, but there is no change in cognitive ability. How should the nurse respond to this information?

Rationale: A. Confirm that the desired effect of the medication has been achieved: Trazodone is prescribed to improve mood and aid sleep, not to enhance cognitive function. Since the caregiver reports improvement in those areas, the medication is achieving its intended therapeutic outcomes. B. Explain that it may take several weeks for the medication to be effective: While some antidepressants require time to reach full effectiveness, the caregiver already reports improved mood and sleep. There is no indication of delayed onset. C. Evaluate when and how the medication is being administered to the client: No signs of improper administration or ineffective dosing are indicated. The caregiver's feedback suggests the medication is being given correctly and is having a beneficial effect. D. Notify the healthcare provider that a change in dosage may be needed: Cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease is progressive and not expected to improve with trazodone, so no dosage change is warranted based on this feedback.