Question 1

In performing a physical assessment for an older adult patient,the nurse anticipates finding an increase in which one of the following,representing a normal physiological change of aging?

Accepted Answer

As people age, there is a normal physiological increase in airway resistance due to changes in lung tissue and the chest wall, making breathing slightly more difficult.

Question 2

According to Erikson,which of the following is a developmental task for the older adult?

Accepted Answer

Erikson's developmental task for older adults is "integrity vs. despair," which involves reflecting on life and accepting its end, including adjusting to decreasing health and physical strength.

Question 3

Which of the following is true in regard to dehydration and the older adult?

Accepted Answer

Thirst response is known to decrease with age, making it more difficult for older adults to recognize when they are becoming dehydrated. This can lead to a delay in seeking fluids and an increased risk of dehydration.

Question 4

What age signifies the beginning of older adulthood?

Accepted Answer

The age of 65 years typically marks the beginning of older adulthood as it is the age at which many people retire and become eligible for social security benefits. Additionally, this is the age range when changes in physical and cognitive abilities often begin to occur, making it a common marker of the onset of older adulthood.

Question 5

A long-term care facility sponsors a discussion group on the administration of medications.The participants have a number of questions concerning their medications.Which of the following is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

Accepted Answer

Encouraging patients to ask their physician about their medications promotes patient education and understanding. Option A is incorrect as identifying medications by visual appearance alone can be dangerous and lead to medication errors. Option C is incorrect as not all medications are metabolized through the liver. Option D is incorrect as patients should always report any changes in how they feel while taking medications, even if they seem minor.

Question 6

The nurse is performing a physical examination of an older adult patient in an assisted-living facility.On completion of the exam,the nurse compares the results with findings expected for individuals in this age group.Which of the following increases is an expected finding for this patient?

Accepted Answer

Sensitivity to glare tends to increase with age, as the lens of the eye becomes less able to block out bright light. Tactile responsiveness tends to decrease with age, as does hearing acuity for higher tones. Thoracic expansion may also decrease with age due to changes in muscles and bones.

Question 7

An older woman reports that she involuntarily releases urine when she coughs or sneezes.What is this type of incontinence called?

Accepted Answer

The involuntary release of urine during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercising is known as stress incontinence. This type of incontinence is more common in women and is usually caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Question 8

Myths exist regarding the older adult population in Canada.Which of the following is the nurse aware is true about the majority of older adults?

Accepted Answer

Despite common myths and misconceptions, the majority of older adults in Canada are still sexually active and enjoy sexual relationships. The other options, such as forgetfulness and institutionalization, are not true for the majority of older adults.

Question 9

A 70-year-old patient must have her blood pressure checked during each shift.She asks the nurse to explain her hypertension.The nurse's reply is based on the knowledge that the older adult patient often experiences hypertension because of which of the following changes?

Accepted Answer

As people age, their blood vessels become less flexible and less able to expand to allow blood to flow through as easily. This leads to an increase in blood pressure, known as hypertension.

Question 10

Which of the following describes the branch of medicine that deals with the physiological and psychological aspects of aging?

Accepted Answer

Geriatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the physiological and psychological aspects of aging.

Question 11

Which one of the following statements related to cognitive functioning in the older adult patient is true?

Accepted Answer

Reversible systemic disorders such as infections, metabolic imbalances, and medication side effects are often causes of delirium in older adults. It is not true that cognitive deterioration is inevitable with aging, nor is intoxication from therapeutic drugs a common cause of senile dementia. Delirium can be difficult to distinguish from dementia, as they can present with similar symptoms, but delirium is typically an acute and reversible condition.

Question 12

For older adults,a number of health-related concerns should be addressed.The nurse incorporates this information to meet the needs of the older adult patient.Which of the following statements accurately reflects data that the nurse should use in planning care?

Accepted Answer

Older adults' nutritional needs are influenced by their activity levels and any clinical conditions they may have.

Question 13

A patient has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.When teaching the family about the prognosis,what must the nurse explain?

Accepted Answer

The nurse must explain that Alzheimer's disease usually progresses gradually, with a deterioration of function. It is important for the family to understand the expected course of the disease.

Question 14

The nurse works with older adult patients in a wellness-screening clinic on a weekly basis.Which of the following is the best statement made by the nurse to patients in the older adult age group?

Accepted Answer

Option B is the best statement as it recommends regular exercise, which is essential to maintain and strengthen functional ability in older adults. Option A is not appropriate as it suggests that pain is a normal part of ageing, which is not necessarily the case. Option C is incorrect because nurses should never encourage patients to blindly trust their doctors without addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Option D suggests a specific exercise goal without considering the individual patient's current physical abilities or limitations.

Question 15

The nurse recognizes that factors associated with aging influence the musculoskeletal system.Which one of the following statements does the nurse recognize as being correct?

Accepted Answer

Exercise stimulates bone formation and can help reduce the loss of bone mass in older adults. A and B are incorrect as women are at greater risk for osteoporosis and muscle fibers actually decrease in size and become less elastic with aging. D is inaccurate as both muscle strength and mass decline with age.

Question 16

Which one of the following nutritional deficiencies is most common for an older adult with reduced financial resources living in a remote rural community?

Accepted Answer

Protein deficiency is the most likely nutritional deficiency for an older adult with reduced financial resources living in a remote rural community. This is because they may not have access to affordable sources of protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, and eggs. Additionally, the cost of transportation and storage of fresh foods may be a challenge in a remote rural community, making it difficult for older adults to maintain a balanced diet.

Quiz 24: Older Adulthood