Nokea
An older patient worries that simple tasks, like balancing a checkbook, take longer. How should the nurse respond?
- A. “Normal brain changes with aging slow central processing, so don’t worry.”
- B. “This is abnormal and needs immediate physician evaluation.”
- C. “Changes in brain function lead to decreased intellectual performance.”
- D. “Any change in function is concerning and needs evaluation.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Acknowledge patient's concern.
Step 2: Educate on normal aging changes affecting cognitive function.
Step 3: Reassure patient that slight delays in tasks are common.
Step 4: Encourage healthy habits to support cognitive function.
Step 5: Emphasize the importance of monitoring any significant changes.
Summary:
Choice A is correct as it addresses the concern, educates on normal aging changes, reassures the patient, and provides guidance on monitoring. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they either suggest immediate evaluation without considering normal aging changes or provide inaccurate information about brain function in aging.
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Which of the following factors contributes the most to aging-related cognitive decline?
- A. Chronic stress
- B. Poor nutrition
- C. Social isolation
- D. Lack of physical exercise
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Lack of physical exercise contributes the most to aging-related cognitive decline. Regular physical exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promotes neurogenesis, and enhances cognitive function. It also reduces the risk of developing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Chronic stress (A) can impact cognitive function, but it is not the primary factor in aging-related decline. Poor nutrition (B) can negatively affect brain health, but exercise has a more significant impact. Social isolation (C) is also detrimental to cognitive health, but physical exercise has been shown to have a more substantial influence on cognitive decline in aging individuals.
An older female patient states reading is difficult in the evening. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Put a high-intensity lamp at the head of her bed.
- B. Explain that the arcus senilis is interfering with vision.
- C. Put more powerful tubes in the fluorescent lights.
- D. Examine her retinas for signs of damage.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a high-intensity lamp can provide better lighting for reading, addressing the difficulty the patient experiences in the evening. This intervention can improve visibility and reduce strain on the eyes. Option B is incorrect as arcus senilis is a common age-related condition but not a direct cause of difficulty reading. Option C is incorrect as simply increasing the power of fluorescent lights may not address specific visual needs for reading. Option D is incorrect as examining the retinas may not directly address the patient's difficulty in reading and is not the most appropriate initial intervention.
Mandatory retirement at age 65 years is consistent with which theory of aging?
- A. Role theory
- B. Disengagement theory
- C. Age-stratification theory
- D. Social exchange theory
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Disengagement theory. This theory suggests that as people age, they naturally withdraw or disengage from societal roles and responsibilities. Mandatory retirement at age 65 aligns with this theory as it reflects the societal expectation of older individuals stepping back from work roles. Role theory (A) focuses on how individuals adapt to various social roles throughout their lives, not specifically related to retirement. Age-stratification theory (C) emphasizes how age impacts societal structures and opportunities, not retirement policies. Social exchange theory (D) focuses on relationships and interactions based on the exchange of resources, not specifically related to retirement age policies.
An older man in a nursing home has high cholesterol (245 mg/dL). Which intervention helps him achieve the highest level of wellness?
- A. Instruct him about increasing dietary fiber.
- B. Ask the health care provider for a low-fat diet.
- C. Schedule a consultation for him with the dietitian.
- D. Review a menu with him to choose suitable foods.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because reviewing a menu with the older man allows for personalized food selection, taking into account his preferences and dietary restrictions. This approach promotes adherence to a healthy eating plan, leading to better cholesterol management and overall wellness.
Choice A is not the best option as simply instructing him to increase dietary fiber may not address his specific dietary needs. Choice B suggests asking the health care provider for a low-fat diet, which may not consider the individual's food preferences or cultural background. Choice C of scheduling a consultation with a dietitian is a good option, but it may not be as immediately accessible or practical as reviewing a menu together with the individual.
Identify the best statement about gerontological nursing.
- A. Nurses have only recently become involved in the care of older adults.
- B. Gerontological care was the second specialty in which the American Nurses Association (ANA) offered a certification program.
- C. Purposes of gerontological nursing include the promotion of health and support for maximal independence.
- D. ANA certification is available only for gerontological nurses in research positions.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because gerontological nursing focuses on promoting health and maximizing independence in older adults. This statement aligns with the core principles of gerontological nursing, which emphasize holistic care and quality of life for elderly individuals. Choice A is incorrect because nurses have been involved in caring for older adults for a long time. Choice B is incorrect because gerontological care was not the second specialty certified by the ANA. Choice D is incorrect because ANA certification is not limited only to research positions in gerontological nursing.