Question

A nurse is counseling an older adult who describes having difficulty dealing with several issues. Which of the following problems should the nurse identify as the priority?

a. "I spent my whole life dreaming about retirement, and now I wish I had my job back"
b. It's been so stressful for me to have to depend on my child to help around the house"
c. "I just heard my friend Al died. That's the third one in three months"
d. I keep forgetting which medications I have taken during the day"

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize addressing the older adult's difficulty in remembering which medications they have taken during the day. Forgetting or taking medications incorrectly can have serious health consequences.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify the priority problem as option d, 'I keep forgetting which medications I have taken during the day.' This issue is of immediate concern as it relates to the older adult's safety and well-being. Forgetting to take prescribed medications or taking them incorrectly can have serious health consequences. It is important for the nurse to assess the older adult's medication management and provide appropriate interventions to support their adherence to the medication regimen.