Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

When administering Donepezil for Alzheimer's disease, what should the nurse especially monitor for?

1. Sleep patterns

2. Weight changes

3. Blood pressure levels

4. Auditory hallucinations

The correct answer is: Weight changes

Monitoring weight changes is particularly important when administering Donepezil for Alzheimer's disease because this medication can impact appetite and gastrointestinal function. Patients taking Donepezil may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Maintaining a close watch on weight can help healthcare providers identify any adverse effects early and adjust treatment as necessary. While monitoring sleep patterns, blood pressure levels, and auditory hallucinations can still be relevant in the general care of Alzheimer's patients, they are not as directly associated with Donepezil as weight changes. For instance, although changes in sleep patterns can occur with various medications and conditions, they are not a primary concern specific to Donepezil. Blood pressure changes are generally less directly impacted by this medication, and auditory hallucinations, while serious, are not a common side effect of Donepezil itself. Therefore, weight monitoring stands out as particularly relevant when considering the effects of Donepezil on patients.