Ethical Considerations There are a few ethical considerations involved with a

Ethical Considerations There are a few ethical considerations involved with a client presenting with impaired memory due to Alzheimer's disease. As a provider, the client, as well as a family, should be included in the treatment plan. Risk, benefits, side effects, as well as any changes in the treatment plan, should be active communication. Advanced directives should also be discussed at the early stages of the disease, if possible. Also, with the impaired judgment and insight displayed, providing informed consent is impossible. The provider must assess the efficacy of the treatment plan but validating with the caregivers. Also, it is known Alzheimer’s disease results in a decrease quality of life as well as physical, emotional, and economic burdens for caregivers. Much of this cost consists of medications that have some efficacy but limited effectiveness for most patients (Casey et al., 2010). Providers have a responsibility to their clients as well as family members involved to discuss all the pros and cons of treatment, including the possible lack of substantial benefit. Clients and their families should conclude their judgments as to whether to proceed with pharmacotherapy and the cost associated with it.

RUNNING HEAD: Dementia 7 Conclusion Due to the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, there is an urgent need for effective therapies. Unfortunately, there are limited treatment options available. Treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and increasing the client's quality of life. To achieve compliance with treatment, one must be aware of complicated dosing regimens, memory impairment, side effects, as well as the cost of medications. Effective communication should be of importance.

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RUNNING HEAD: Dementia 9 RxList. (2019). Aricept . Retrieved from Stahl, S. M. (2014b). The Prescriber’s Guide (5 th ed). New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.