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 interventions is most effective in preventing the development of pressure ulcers in older adults with limited mobility?
- A. Strict bed rest and minimal repositioning to reduce pressure
- B. Use of high-protein diets and supplemental vitamins only
- C. Regular repositioning every 2 hours, along with the use of pressure-relieving devices
- D. Ensuring that all wounds are left uncovered to facilitate air circulation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because regular repositioning every 2 hours, along with the use of pressure-relieving devices, is the most effective intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in older adults with limited mobility. Repositioning helps to redistribute pressure, reducing the risk of tissue damage. Pressure-relieving devices like cushions or mattresses further help to alleviate pressure points.
Choice A is incorrect because strict bed rest and minimal repositioning can actually increase the risk of pressure ulcers by concentrating pressure on specific areas. Choice B is incorrect as high-protein diets and supplements alone do not address the primary cause of pressure ulcers, which is prolonged pressure on the skin. Choice D is incorrect because leaving wounds uncovered can increase the risk of infection and hinder the healing process.
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.
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.
An 81 yr old female presents to the ED with altered level of consciousness. All of the following except____ are possible causes for this condition.
- A. peripheral arterial disease
- B. hypoglycemia
- C. pneumonia
- D. hypotension from dehydration
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: peripheral arterial disease. Altered level of consciousness in an 81-year-old female is unlikely to be directly caused by peripheral arterial disease. Instead, hypoglycemia, pneumonia, and hypotension from dehydration are common causes of altered mental status in the elderly. Hypoglycemia can lead to brain dysfunction, pneumonia can cause low oxygen levels affecting brain function, and dehydration-induced hypotension can reduce blood flow to the brain. Therefore, peripheral arterial disease is not typically a direct cause of altered consciousness in this scenario.
Which of the following is the most important intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in older adults?
- A. Regular repositioning every 2 hours
- B. Administering pain medications before repositioning
- C. Encouraging excessive hydration
- D. Using restrictive bandages
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Regular repositioning every 2 hours. Repositioning helps to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, improving blood flow and preventing tissue damage. This intervention is evidence-based and recommended in pressure ulcer prevention guidelines. Administering pain medications before repositioning (B) does not address the root cause of pressure ulcers. Encouraging excessive hydration (C) may have other health benefits but does not directly prevent pressure ulcers. Using restrictive bandages (D) can actually increase pressure and worsen the risk of pressure ulcers.