Question

The nurse would assess a client’s short-term memory by asking the client: A. his/her birth date B. to count backwards from 100 to 7 C. to repeat the phrase “no ifs ands or buts” D. about current events

Short answer

B. to count backwards from 100 to 7

Step-by-step solution

Title - Understand Short-Term Memory

Short-term memory involves recalling information over a short period, usually seconds to minutes. It typically evaluates the client's ability to hold and manipulate information briefly.

Title - Evaluate Each Option

Review each of the given options to determine which one assesses short-term memory:

Title - Assess Birth Date

Option A: Asking for the birth date assesses long-term memory since it is information usually known for many years.

Title - Count Backwards

Option B: Counting backwards from 100 to 7 requires active engagement and manipulation of numbers, which involves short-term memory.

Title - Repeat a Phrase

Option C: Repeating a phrase like 'no ifs ands or buts' tests immediate memory or language skills, not necessarily short-term memory.

Title - Discuss Current Events

Option D: Asking about current events may involve both short-term and long-term memory depending on how recent the events are and the client's engagement with them.

Title - Conclusion

Based on the evaluation, asking the client to count backwards from 100 to 7 is the most fitting way to assess short-term memory.

Key concepts

nursing assessment techniques

Nursing assessment techniques are crucial for understanding a patient's health status and needs. These techniques help gather comprehensive data about a patient's physical, mental, and emotional conditions. One common assessment technique is the use of observation. Nurses meticulously observe patients' behavior, appearance, and physical conditions to gather initial information.
Another technique is the physical examination, which involves inspecting, palpating, percussing, and auscultating different parts of the body to detect any abnormalities.
Additionally, interviews are a key component where the nurse asks a series of questions to gather health history and current health concerns.

• Observation
• Physical Examination
• Interview

Combining these techniques allows nurses to create a holistic view of the patient, which guides the development of personalized care plans.

short-term memory evaluation

Short-term memory evaluation is an essential part of cognitive assessments in nursing. It helps determine a patient's ability to recall information over a brief period, ranging from seconds to minutes. This type of memory is vital for daily activities and functioning.
One common method to evaluate short-term memory is the backward counting test. As outlined in the original exercise, asking a patient to count backwards from 100 to 7 requires them to actively engage and manipulate numbers, utilizing their short-term memory.
Another method is the digit span test, where the nurse reads a series of numbers, and the patient is required to repeat them in the correct order. Both of these methods effectively assess the patient's ability to retain and process information for short durations.
Effective short-term memory evaluation provides insights into cognitive health and helps identify potential memory impairments that could affect a patient's daily life.

cognitive function tests

Cognitive function tests evaluate various aspects of a patient's cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, language, and problem-solving skills. These tests are critical in diagnosing cognitive impairments and planning appropriate care.
A commonly used cognitive test is the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). This test assesses different cognitive domains, including orientation, registration, attention, recall, and language.
Another essential test is the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), which is more sensitive to detecting mild cognitive impairment. It covers memory, executive functions, visuospatial skills, and more.

• Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
• Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)

< br> These cognitive function tests offer a comprehensive evaluation of a patient's cognitive health, allowing for early detection of any anomalies and the implementation of timely interventions.