A nurse is caring for a client who has moderate Alzheimer's disease. During weekly home visits, the nurse notices that the client's caregiver is tired, irritable, and impatient with the client. Which of the following actions should the nurse recommend to the caregiver?

Rationale: A. Contact hospice services for end-of-life care: Hospice services are designed for clients who are terminally ill with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease runs its normal course. Moderate Alzheimer's disease does not automatically meet hospice criteria, and contacting hospice at this stage may be premature. Interventions should focus on caregiver support. B. Pursue local protective services: Protective services are intended to address abuse or neglect situations. While caregiver stress is evident, the scenario does not indicate intentional harm, neglect, or abuse toward the client. Reporting to protective services is not warranted solely based on caregiver fatigue or irritability. C. Take a nonprescription sleeping medication: While sleep aids may temporarily help with caregiver fatigue, nonprescription medications carry risks such as next-day sedation, falls, and interactions with other medications. This approach does not address the underlying issue of caregiver stress and may mask symptoms rather than provide sustainable support. D. Consider respite care services: Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers by allowing them to rest, attend to personal needs, or take breaks from caregiving duties. Utilizing respite services helps reduce caregiver stress, prevent burnout, and promote patience and emotional stability when caring for a client with Alzheimer’s disease.