Clinical meaning
Alzheimer disease is an irreversible and progressive dementia caused by neurodegenerative changes in the brain from abnormal protein buildup. Beta-amyloid plaques accumulate between neurons and tau protein tangles form inside neurons, resulting in cell damage and neuronal death. These changes develop over time, leading to progressive cognitive decline. The nurse monitors for changes in cognition, behavior, and functional ability, assists with activities of daily living, maintains safety, and reports changes to the nursing team.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Age over 65 years (greatest risk factor) - Family history of Alzheimer disease - Down syndrome (trisomy 21) - Female sex - History of head trauma - Cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, obesity) - Low educational attainment - Social isolation and sedentary lifestyle
Diagnostics: - Assist with cognitive screening tools (MMSE or MoCA) as directed - Monitor client's level of orientation, attention, and recall - Document baseline cognitive and functional abilities - Report changes in behavior, mood, or cognitive function to the RN - Monitor for safety hazards related to cognitive decline - Assist with ADL assessment and report functional changes