Question 1

An adult daughter of an older patient is overheard telling a friend that it's "payback time" because the patient loved to yell and scream at the daughter when she was a child. What should the nurse be alert for when assessing this patient?

Accepted Answer

The statement "payback time" suggests a potential for psychological abuse, as it implies the daughter may be seeking revenge or retribution through emotional or verbal mistreatment.

Question 2

When entering the home of an older patient during a hot summer day, the licensed nurse notes that a table fan is positioned to blow air directly onto the patient's face and chest. What should the nurse do first?

Accepted Answer

Direct airflow from a fan can cause discomfort or exacerbate respiratory issues in older patients. The nurse should first adjust the fan to prevent it from blowing directly on the patient to ensure comfort and prevent potential health issues.

Question 3

When entering the home of an older patient the nurse smells smoke. What should be done first?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the patient's safety is the immediate priority when smoke is detected, to prevent harm or injury to the patient.

Question 4

During a home visit the licensed nurse decides to focus on assessing an older patient's mental status. What did the nurse observe to make this clinical determination?

Accepted Answer

Increasing isolation from friends, family, and activities can indicate changes in mental status, such as depression or cognitive decline, prompting further assessment.

Question 5

The licensed nurse is assisting an older patient with a bath. What should be done to ensure this patient's skin integrity?

Accepted Answer

Applying lotion to the skin helps maintain its moisture, which is crucial for preserving skin integrity, especially in older patients whose skin may be more prone to dryness and damage.

Question 6

The licensed nurse is reviewing medications prescribed for an older patient. Which medication should be administered during the day to reduce the risk of falls?

Accepted Answer

Diuretics should be administered during the day to reduce the risk of falls in older patients. This is because diuretics increase urine production, leading to the need for frequent urination. Administering them during the day prevents the patient from having to get up at night to urinate, which can decrease the risk of falls.

Question 7

The nurse is concerned that an older patient is at risk for falling. What observations caused the nurse to have this concern? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The nurse is concerned that an older...

Question 8

An older patient walks to the community clinic in a snow storm. Which assessment findings should indicate to the licensed nurse that this patient is experiencing adverse effects of being outside in the cold weather? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Shivering and slurred speech are both signs of hypothermia, which can occur when a person is exposed to cold weather for too long.

Question 9

While inspecting the skin of an older patient on bedrest the licensed nurse notes several new long scratches along the back and buttocks. What should the nurse suspect as being the cause of these wounds?

Accepted Answer

The long scratches are likely caused by the long fingernails of the primary caregiver, as they are consistent with the appearance of scratches rather than tears or wrinkles from bedding.

Question 10

An older female patient refuses to answer questions regarding sexuality and asks, "What difference does it make?" How should the licensed nurse respond to this patient?

Accepted Answer

The response focuses on the patient's needs and ensures that the patient understands the importance of the question in the context of holistic care.

Question 11

An older patient holds the nurse's hand and states, "Please don't leave me alone here when my son comes to visit." What should this indicate to the nurse?

Accepted Answer

This statement suggests the patient may have concerns or fears about being alone with her son, possibly due to past experiences or the son's behavior. It indicates a need for protection or support rather than a desire for introductions or assistance with communication.

Question 12

The nurse is preparing to make a visit to an older patient in the home. What should the nurse keep in mind when assessing the patient's living environment for safety concerns? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

The nurse should visually inspect the home for safety hazards, listen for any safety concerns mentioned by the patient, and identify community resources that can assist in case of safety issues.

Question 13

An older patient in the community becomes confused and begins to wander during the evening hours. For which health problem should the licensed nurse identify interventions for this patient?

Accepted Answer

Sundowning refers to a symptom of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. It involves increased confusion and agitation that begins in the late afternoon and extends into the night. This matches the description of the patient's symptoms, making interventions for sundowning appropriate.

Question 14

An older patient is sitting in the kitchen with the lights out, watching the next door neighbor's yard. When asked about this behavior, the patient states that the kids next door have BB guns and she doesn't want to be shot. What should the nurse be concerned about with this patient?

Accepted Answer

The answer of An older patient is sitting in the...

Question 15

The nurse is participating in a community educational program on the preparation of a safety bag. What contents should the nurse demonstrate being placed in this bag? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

A safety bag, often referred to as a "go bag" or "emergency bag," should contain essentials that would be needed if one had to quickly evacuate or sustain themselves without access to usual resources. Money is necessary for purchasing supplies or services. A cell phone and charger are crucial for communication. Medications for 10 days ensure that the individual has enough supply in case they cannot access a pharmacy. Food and water for 3 days are basic necessities for survival. Weapons and ammunition are not recommended for a safety bag as they pose safety risks and legal implications.

Quiz 7: Safety