A nurse is collecting data from the caregiver of a client who has Alzheimer's disease. The caregiver reports the client has difficulty sleeping at night and wanders throughout the house. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Put a simple lock on the client's bedroom door: Locking the client's door could pose a safety risk, especially in the event of an emergency such as a fire. It also restricts the client's autonomy and may increase confusion or agitation in clients with Alzheimer's disease. B. Give the client a barbiturate medication at bedtime: Barbiturates are not recommended for older adults due to their sedating effects and risk of dependence, falls, and worsening cognitive function. Non-pharmacologic strategies are preferred first in managing sleep disturbances. C. Encourage the client to take frequent walks during the day: Physical activity during the day helps reduce nighttime restlessness and improve sleep patterns. Walking can also help regulate circadian rhythms, promote relaxation, and reduce wandering behavior at night. D. Allow the client to nap for at least 1 hr during the day: Long daytime naps may disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, worsening insomnia and nighttime wandering. Limiting daytime napping and encouraging activity is more effective in promoting restful nighttime sleep.