What is the leading cause of death in geriatric patients?
- A. Hypertension.
- B. Arthritis.
- C. Heart disease.
- D. Altered mental status.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in geriatric patients. It encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, which are more prevalent in older individuals. These conditions can lead to serious complications and ultimately result in higher mortality rates among the elderly population. Hypertension (choice A) is a risk factor for heart disease but not the leading cause of death in geriatric patients. Arthritis (choice B) is a chronic condition affecting the joints, not a primary cause of death in this population. Altered mental status (choice D) is a symptom rather than a leading cause of death in geriatric patients.
You may also like to solve these questions
Seizures in children MOST often result from:
- A. a life-threatening infection.
- B. an inflammatory process in the brain.
- C. an abrupt rise in body temperature.
- D. a temperature greater than 102°F.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Seizures in children most often result from febrile seizures, which are triggered by an abrupt rise in body temperature. Febrile seizures are common in young children, especially between the ages of 6 months to 5 years, and are usually associated with viral infections that cause a sudden spike in body temperature. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while infections, inflammatory processes, and high temperatures can sometimes lead to seizures, the most common cause of seizures in children is an abrupt increase in body temperature, known as febrile seizures.
Which of the following statements regarding sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is correct?
- A. Death as a result of SIDS can occur at any time of the day or night.
- B. Certain cases of SIDS are predictable and therefore preventable.
- C. Most cases of SIDS occur in infants younger than 6 months.
- D. SIDS is uncommon in infants older than 1 year of age.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. SIDS can occur at any time of the day or night, although it most commonly occurs during sleep. SIDS is sudden and unpredictable, making it challenging to prevent in all cases. While most cases occur in infants younger than 6 months, it is not limited to this age group. SIDS is not uncommon in infants older than 1 year of age, although less common than in younger infants.
Which of the following is a more reliable indicator of perfusion in children than in adults?
- A. Blood pressure
- B. Heart rate
- C. Respiratory rate
- D. Capillary refill
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Capillary refill is a more reliable indicator of perfusion in children than in adults. This is because children have more compliant vessels, making capillary refill a more sensitive indicator of perfusion status in this population. In contrast, while blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate are important indicators, they may not be as reliable in children as capillary refill. Blood pressure can be affected by various factors such as anxiety or pain, heart rate can be influenced by emotions or temperature, and respiratory rate may vary with activity levels. Therefore, capillary refill is preferred in children for a more accurate assessment of perfusion.
Which of the following statements regarding SIDS is correct?
- A. SIDS can occur in premature infants.
- B. It is most commonly a result of child abuse.
- C. Death usually occurs during sleep.
- D. SIDS can be prevented by placing the baby on its back to sleep.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct statement regarding SIDS is that death usually occurs during sleep. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected death of a seemingly healthy infant, typically occurring during sleep. The exact cause of SIDS is not fully understood. While placing the baby on its back to sleep is a recommended preventive measure to reduce the risk of SIDS, it cannot guarantee prevention. Choice A is incorrect as SIDS is not limited to premature infants. Choice B is incorrect as SIDS is not primarily caused by child abuse.
When ventilating an apneic 3-year-old child with a bag-valve mask device, what is the MOST important action to take?
- A. Avoid hyperventilation and ensure adequate chest rise.
- B. Squeeze the bag with both hands and use a pediatric mask.
- C. Immediately insert an oropharyngeal airway.
- D. Provide one breath every 3 to 5 seconds.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When ventilating an apneic child, the most important action is to avoid hyperventilation and ensure adequate chest rise. Hyperventilation can lead to decreased cardiac output and increased intracranial pressure. Adequate chest rise confirms effective ventilation and minimizes the risk of complications. Choice B is incorrect because using both hands to squeeze the bag may not ensure proper ventilation and can lead to complications. Choice C is incorrect as inserting an oropharyngeal airway is not the initial action in ventilating an apneic child with a bag-valve mask. Choice D is incorrect as providing ventilations every 3 to 5 seconds may not be appropriate for effective ventilation in a pediatric patient.
Nokea