Which of the following is a key sign of dehydration in older adults that differs from younger populations?
- A. Dark-colored urine
- B. Increased thirst
- C. Dry mouth and skin
- D. Confusion or cognitive decline
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Confusion or cognitive decline. In older adults, dehydration can manifest differently than in younger populations. Cognitive decline is a key sign of dehydration in older adults due to the brain being more sensitive to fluid loss. Dehydration can lead to confusion, disorientation, and impaired cognitive function in older individuals. Dark-colored urine (A) is a common sign of dehydration in all age groups. Increased thirst (B) is a general sign of dehydration but may not be as prominent in older adults due to decreased thirst sensation. Dry mouth and skin (C) are also common signs of dehydration but may not be as reliable indicators in older adults compared to cognitive changes.
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The home care nurse is visiting an older female client whose husband died 6 months ago. What behavior by the client indicates ineffective coping?
- A. Neglecting personal grooming
- B. Looking at old pictures
- C. Participating in senior citizens' program
- D. Visiting her husband's grave
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because neglecting personal grooming indicates a lack of self-care, which is a common sign of ineffective coping after the loss of a loved one. This behavior suggests the client may be struggling emotionally and unable to engage in basic self-care tasks. Looking at old pictures, participating in social activities, and visiting the husband's grave are all healthy coping mechanisms that can help the client process her grief and maintain connections with her late husband.
Which of the following can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults with chronic pain?
- A. Complete bed rest
- B. Unsupervised use of opioids
- C. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and physical therapy
- D. Isolation and minimal social interaction
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and physical therapy. CBT helps older adults manage pain through changing thought patterns and behaviors, improving coping skills. Physical therapy helps maintain mobility and reduce pain. Both approaches address the physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain, leading to better quality of life.
Complete bed rest (A) can worsen pain and lead to muscle weakness. Unsupervised use of opioids (B) can be dangerous, leading to addiction and other health issues. Isolation and minimal social interaction (D) can contribute to depression and exacerbate pain.
In which context are members of a cohort described when using the age-stratification theory to explain the effect of similar events, conditions, and circumstances?
- A. Historical
- B. Biological
- C. Sociological
- D. Chronological
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Historical. In age-stratification theory, cohort members are described in historical context to explain shared experiences. This theory emphasizes that individuals born around the same time experience similar events shaping their lives. Historical context is crucial as it considers the societal, cultural, and economic factors influencing a specific generation. Choice B, Biological, is incorrect as age-stratification theory focuses on social aspects rather than biological ones. Choice C, Sociological, is broad and doesn't specifically address the historical aspect of cohort description. Choice D, Chronological, is incorrect as it simply refers to the order of events without considering the historical backdrop of a cohort's experiences.
The nurse designs a group exercise program at a senior center. Which room should the nurse choose?
- A. Room with a hardwood floor and throw rugs
- B. Spacious room with no windows and a natural stone floor
- C. Room with a hardwood floor and large windows overlooking a garden area
- D. End room with linoleum floor and a fan for ventilation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a room with hardwood floor and large windows overlooking a garden area offers a safe, non-slip surface for exercise and natural light for a pleasant environment. Hardwood floors are ideal for exercise to prevent slipping, and the large windows provide a view of the garden area, which can enhance motivation and mood. The other choices are incorrect because A has throw rugs, which can cause tripping hazards, B lacks natural light and ventilation, and D has a linoleum floor which may not be as safe for exercise compared to hardwood.
An older women tells the nurse that her husband seldom brushes his teeth as he did in the past. A reason why older clients stop participating in daily oral hygiene, such as brushing the teeth, include:
- A. Decreased manual dexterity and inability to hold a tooth brush
- B. Malocclusion of teeth
- C. Decrease in taste acuity
- D. Lack of dental insurance
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased manual dexterity and inability to hold a toothbrush. As people age, they may experience decreased hand strength and motor skills, making it difficult to hold and manipulate objects like a toothbrush. This can lead to a decline in oral hygiene practices. Malocclusion of teeth (B) does not directly impact the ability to brush teeth. Decrease in taste acuity (C) may affect appetite but not tooth brushing habits. Lack of dental insurance (D) is a financial barrier and may affect access to dental care, but it does not directly impact the physical ability to brush teeth.