A Client Diagnosed Recently with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Is Prescribed

Multiple Choice

A client diagnosed recently with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is prescribed donepezil (Aricept) . The client's spouse inquires, "How does this work? Will this cure him?" Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

A) "This medication delays the destruction of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
B) "This medication encourages production of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."
C) "This medication delays the destruction of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. Although most effective in the early stages, it serves to delay, but not stop, the progression of the disease."
D) "This medication encourages production of dopamine, a chemical in the brain necessary for memory processes. It delays the progression of the disease."