NCLEX-PN® ExaminationHealth Promotion and MaintenanceMedium
A practical nurse is caring for an older adult client who reports difficulty sleeping, increased irritability, and frequent headaches due to caring for a spouse with advanced dementia. The nurse recognizes these as signs of caregiver burden. Which intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to recommend initially?
- AProviding information about local support groups and respite care services.
- BEncouraging the client to ignore their own needs and prioritize their spouse's care.
- CSuggesting the client consider placing their spouse in a long-term care facility.
- DAdvising the client to increase their caffeine intake to stay alert during the day.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Providing information about local support groups and respite care services.
Caregiver burden often leads to isolation and stress. Providing resources like support groups offers emotional support and coping strategies, while respite care offers temporary relief, both crucial for alleviating the burden and promoting the caregiver's well-being.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This advice is detrimental; ignoring personal needs exacerbates caregiver burden and can lead to burnout.
- C. While potentially necessary long-term, this is a significant decision and may not be the initial, most supportive recommendation.
- D. Increasing caffeine can worsen sleep problems and anxiety, which are already symptoms of caregiver burden.
Caregiver Burden
The physical, emotional, social, and financial strain experienced by individuals caring for a chronically ill, disabled, or elderly family member.
- Symptoms include stress, depression, anxiety, fatigue, social isolation.
- Respite care and support groups are key interventions.
- Nurses should assess for and address caregiver burden proactively.
Memory trick: Support and Sleep Sustain Struggling Spouses.