When assessing a client with Alzheimer disease, how should the nurse approach functional assessment?

Using an assessment tool specifically designed for cognitively impaired clients is essential when assessing functional status in a client with Alzheimer's disease. These tools are tailored to evaluate the unique challenges and limitations faced by individuals with cognitive impairments. Given that Alzheimer's affects memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform daily activities, assessments must be flexible and sensitive to these deficits.

These specialized tools often provide a structured framework that allows the nurse to gather comprehensive data on the client's abilities, such as their capacity for self-care, mobility, and adherence to daily routines. Moreover, they can help gauge the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of interventions over time.

Utilizing general assessment tools may not capture the nuances of cognitive impairment, while ignoring cognitive status overlooks essential aspects of the client's functioning. Infrequent assessments would miss opportunities to monitor changes and adjust care plans accordingly. Therefore, the use of a dedicated assessment tool is critical in promoting accurate and effective nursing care for clients with Alzheimer’s disease.