A patient with Alzheimer's disease is experiencing difficulty performing previously learned tasks. What nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for this patient?

Rationale: A. Apraxia is the inability to carry out previously learned purposeful movements or tasks despite having the physical ability and understanding of the task. In Alzheimer's disease, apraxia often manifests as difficulty with dressing, cooking, or using familiar objects. This makes apraxia the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient struggling with previously learned tasks. B. Impaired memory refers to difficulty recalling new or past information. While memory impairment is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, the specific problem described—difficulty performing learned tasks—is not primarily a memory deficit but rather a motor planning and execution issue (apraxia). C. This diagnosis relates to altered processing of sensory input, such as vision, hearing, or tactile perception. Difficulty performing tasks in Alzheimer's disease is not due to sensory deficits but to cognitive and motor planning impairments. D. While this patient may indeed be at risk for injury due to cognitive decline, the scenario describes a current functional deficit, not just a potential risk. Risk for injury may be a secondary consideration, but it is not the primary nursing diagnosis based on the described symptom.