A nurse in a long-term care facility is providing care for a client who has been receiving donepezil. Which of the following findings indicates that the medication is effective?

A. Enhanced mood: While a better mood can be beneficial for overall well-being, it is not a direct measure of donepezil's effectiveness, which primarily targets cognitive function. B. Increased food intake: Improved appetite may occur, but it is not a primary indication of the effectiveness of donepezil, which focuses on cognitive enhancement. C. Can perform ADLs independently: Although increased independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) is positive, it may not solely be attributed to donepezil, as various factors affect a person's ability to perform ADLs. D. Improved short-term memory: This is the most direct indicator of donepezil's effectiveness, as the medication is designed to improve cognitive function, particularly in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Enhanced short-term memory directly reflects the intended therapeutic effect of the medication.