What is the article about and which drug is discussed?
The article provides the investigation concerning the implementation of donepezil for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in general. According to Govind (2020), “dementia is a syndrome of acquired deficits in multiple domains of cognition” (p. 148). It was proved that “the drug donepezil inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine by reversibly inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, thereby reducing the impact of these abnormalities” (Govind, 2020, p. 148). However, certain doses need to be taken daily to avoid severe consequences. In general, donepezil is advantageous due to its simplicity of taking. The article also compares the outcomes of taking the different doses of this medication.
What is the drug used for primary and are there any secondary uses?
Donepezil is primarily used for alleviating dementia issues but not for treating them. This group of medications is used to improve memory, awareness, and the capability of a person to perform daily activities. Moreover, these medications can be used to mitigate migraine, Parkinson’s disease, and sometimes it serves as a pain relief cure.
What concerns are there regarding this drug?
There are several concerns about this drug, and they relate to the wrong dosage. Firstly, the drugs are likely to cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight gain, or loss. Secondly, donepezil can be the reason for headaches, aggression, mood changes, and other related conditions. Therefore, the main issue is the proper establishment of the dosage.
What bodily systems does this drug affect?
This drug primarily affects a human’s brain and its parts. Normally, it blocks the receptors in the brain parts that the glutamate harms. As a result, these drugs affect the brain and nervous systems.
Does the article discuss normal dosages of the drug? Does it discuss different situations when the dosage would be different?
The article suggests that “the recommended dose of donepezil is 5mg once a day, increasing to 10mg per day after 1 month of treatment” (Govind, 2020, p. 148). The article does discuss the cases when the dosage is different and it demonstrates that the people who have been taken 10mg had better outcomes than those taking 5mg. Moreover, the study proved that taking 23mg of donepezil can cause adverse effects.
What nursing considerations are needed when a patient is on this drug?
Firstly, a nurse must know how to provide individualized care propped by well-established communication with a patient. Secondly, a nurse must be aware of the dosage of the drug prescribed so as not to cause any side effects on the patient.
Can the patient go home on this drug? Are there special considerations needed to be able to go home with this drug?
The patient can go home on this drug without being admitted to the nursing home. The article suggested that the difference in treatment of the patient placed in nursing homes and the ones that were taking these medications at home was insignificant (Govind, 2020).
What are three teaching points needed for this drug that the nurse needs to ensure the patient is aware of?
The first point considers taking the capsules daily as directed and the patients should not take more drugs than prescribed. The second point relates to the patient’s awareness of the side effects of the drug. Finally, the third teaching point concerns the constant consultation with the care professional in a case when a patient wants to improve their treatment.
When would a nurse see a patient using this drug, what should she need to be aware of and concerned about, how to monitor for those concerns, and how would she know if the drug is being effective?
The implementation of donepezil does provide significant health outcomes for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. As a practicing nurse, one should consider the condition of a patient, their health history, the dosage of the medications, and other related aspects. To prove the effectiveness of donepezil, a nurse must continually consult a patient and conduct regular cognitive tests.
Reference
Govind, N. (2020). Donepezil for dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. British Journal of Community Nursing, 25(3), 148–149.