Age Specific Patient Care Related

Review Age Specific Patient Care related questions and content

The daughter of an 84-year-old client with dementia tearfully tells the nurse that she doesn't know what's wrong with her mother, who has begun accusing the family of stealing her lingerie and holding her prisoner. The nurse identifies which of the following nursing diagnosis for the client?

  • A. Disturbed thought processes
  • B. Powerlessness
  • C. Ineffective coping
  • D. Defensive coping
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Disturbed thought processes. This nursing diagnosis is appropriate because the client's symptoms suggest cognitive impairment and delusions, which are common in dementia. The client's accusations of theft and imprisonment indicate a distortion in reality perception, reflecting disturbed thought processes. Powerlessness (B) relates more to lack of control over circumstances, not cognitive issues. Ineffective coping (C) and Defensive coping (D) focus on emotional responses rather than cognitive impairment.