An older adult woman who stops using complementary alternative medicine (CAM) becomes disoriented and is given a diagnosis of dementiThe family is upset with the family physician and the CAM practitioner for not diagnosing the condition earlier. Which CAM may have interfered with early detection of the dementia?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because large doses of calcium causing cerebral plaques to form can potentially mask the atrophy of the brain, which is a common indicator of dementia on imaging studies. This interference could delay the detection of dementia. Choice B is incorrect because excess folic acid would not mask a vitamin B deficiency that could lead to dementia. Choice C is incorrect as hypnotherapy focusing on current thoughts would not necessarily eliminate clues to past cognitive decline. Choice D is incorrect because there is no evidence that the electrical current from magnetic fields interferes with normal brain waves in a way that would cause confusion and inability to concentrate.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: The Law of Cure in homeopathy states that symptoms improve in the reverse order of their appearance. Step 2: The worsening of symptoms initially is known as a healing crisis or aggravation. Step 3: By remaining on the current regimen, the patient allows the body to go through the healing process. Step 4: This indicates that the body is responding to the remedy and working towards a deeper level of healing. Step 5: Discontinuing therapy or increasing potency/dosage may disrupt this natural healing process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Qi gong. Qi gong is a form of energy therapy that focuses on balancing the body's energy flow. It involves gentle movements, meditation, and breathing exercises to promote healing and overall well-being. Osteopathy (B) is a manual therapy focusing on physical manipulation of the body, not energy. Imagery (C) involves mental visualization, not energy manipulation. Healing touch (D) is a form of energy therapy, but Qi gong is a more widely recognized and specific example in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the primary factor that characterizes a patient receiving palliative care is a diagnosis of a serious, life-threatening disease. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, regardless of the stage of the disease or the prognosis. This means that palliative care can be appropriate for patients with a variety of life expectancies, not just those with less than 12 months to live. Choices B and C are incorrect because while they are important factors in healthcare decision-making, they are not the primary factor that characterizes a patient receiving palliative care. Choice D is also incorrect because palliative care can be provided to patients with various life expectancies, not just those with less than 12 months to live.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct initial intervention for the nurse when working with the family of a patient receiving palliative care is to identify what types of help the family will need to care for the patient (Choice B). This is because understanding the family's needs and resources is essential for providing effective support. By identifying the specific types of assistance required, the nurse can tailor the care plan to meet the family's needs, enhancing the quality of care provided to the patient. Determining the patient's durable power of attorney (Choice A) is important but usually comes later in the process after understanding the family's needs. Completing an assessment of the family's strengths and weaknesses (Choice C) is valuable but not the initial step. Discussing the dynamics of the family with the patient (Choice D) may be relevant but is not the priority when initiating support for the family.