A nurse is teaching the caregiver of a client who has advanced Alzheimer’s disease about home safety. Which of the following statements by the caregiver indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: A sliding bolt lock above the doorknob prevents wandering, a major risk in advanced Alzheimer’s due to disorientation, while remaining accessible to caregivers. This safety measure reduces elopement danger, aligning with teaching on environmental control. It shows understanding of adapting the home effectively. Choice B reason: Notifying police within 2 hours reacts to wandering, not preventing it, a key safety goal in Alzheimer’s. Proactive measures like locks take precedence over response plans. This statement addresses aftermath, not precaution, indicating incomplete grasp of teaching. Choice C reason: A dark bedroom risks falls or confusion in Alzheimer’s, where nightlights aid orientation and safety during sleep disruptions. Total darkness contradicts recommendations for visibility, increasing hazards. This shows misunderstanding of environmental safety needs. Choice D reason: Giving a photo to police prepares for a missing person scenario but doesn’t prevent it, unlike locks or supervision. It’s a reactive step, not a proactive safety adaptation taught for home care. This lacks focus on prevention, so it’s incorrect.