The daughter of an older woman who has Parkinson's disease, calls the clinic and reports that her mother has been confused for the past week. Which action(s) should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: This is a correct answer because determining if the mother has recently experienced a fall is important to rule out any head injury or concussion that could cause confusion. Parkinson's disease can increase the risk of falls due to impaired balance, coordination, and mobility. Choice B reason: This is not a correct answer because reviewing the client's current food and medication allergies is not relevant to the mother's confusion. However, it may be important to review the client's current medications and dosages to check for any adverse effects or interactions that could affect cognition. Choice C reason: This is not a correct answer because encouraging increased intake of high protein foods is not helpful for the mother's confusion. In fact, high protein foods may interfere with the absorption of levodopa, a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease symptoms. The nurse should advise the daughter to consult with a dietitian about the optimal timing and amount of protein intake for her mother. Choice D reason: This is a correct answer because instructing the daughter to check her mother's temperature is important to detect any fever or infection that could cause confusion. Older adults are more susceptible to infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), pneumonia, or sepsis, whih can affect mental status. Choice E reason: This is a correct answer because asking if the mother is experiencing any pain with urination is important to screen for any UTI that could cause confusion. UTIs are common in older adults due to reduced bladder function, incomplete emptying, and decreased immunity. UTIs can cause symptoms such as dysuria, frequency, urgency, hematuria, and delirium.