Question 1

A client is concerned about the age-related changes of the client's mother, who is 80 years old. Which statements made by the client likely represent a normal change of aging? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

A,B,C

Question 2

A white female patient who is 75 years of age states, "I've heard that women live to an older age than men. My husband and I are the same age, so I am afraid I will have to spend some years without him. This really worries me." Which answer by the nurse is based on correct information?

Accepted Answer

C

Question 3

A healthy client who is 80 years of age sees the nurse practitioner at the doctor's office. The client states, "I sit around a lot, and now I notice my legs seem to get tired when I walk." Which is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

Accepted Answer

Encouraging regular exercise, especially tailored for seniors, can help improve circulation, strength, and overall well-being, addressing the client's concern about leg fatigue during walking.

Question 4

A patient who is 85 years of age is admitted through the emergency department for confusion and disorientation. The family states, "We don't know what is wrong. He has been fine at home. This confusion just started 2 days ago and seems like it is getting worse." What is the most appropriate first response for the nurse to make?

Accepted Answer

Gathering information about the patient's home medications and other illnesses is crucial for understanding the potential causes of the confusion and disorientation. This approach helps in identifying if the confusion is due to medication side effects, interactions, or other underlying health issues.

Question 5

The nurse works in a geriatric clinic where Havighurst's activity theory is applied to the clientele. The nurse recognizes which as the physical, cognitive, and social developmental tasks of older adults? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Havighurst's activity theory emphasizes staying active and engaged to maintain satisfaction during aging. Choices C, D, and E reflect this by highlighting the importance of adjusting to physical changes, establishing suitable living arrangements, and adapting to retirement and its financial implications, respectively.

Question 6

A client who lives alone is very weak, stays in bed most of the time, and becomes fatigued after taking only two or three steps with a walker. The client's personal hygiene is poor. The client moves very slowly even during performance of small tasks, such as eating a meal. Which are appropriate interventions for this patient? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

- Arranging for a home aide can help the client with activities of daily living due to their weakness and fatigue.- Assessing the patient for symptoms of depression and memory loss is important as these could be contributing to their current state.- Arranging for nutritious meals to be delivered can ensure the client receives proper nutrition, which might improve their energy levels and overall health.

Question 7

The nurse is interviewing a new client at the community geriatric clinic. The client is in the young-old age range but seems to have multiple issues with pain and physical functioning. The client states, "I have always been active and athletic. Now I hardly feel like doing anything because of pain." Which theory of aging is the nurse likely to apply to the client?

Accepted Answer

The wear and tear theory of aging suggests that the body, much like any machine, gradually deteriorates and breaks down over time due to accumulated damage and use. This theory aligns with the client's experience of having been active and athletic throughout life and now facing issues with pain and physical functioning, suggesting that their symptoms may be due to the cumulative wear and tear on their body from years of activity.

Question 8

Which nursing intervention is most helpful for an older adult client with dementia who exhibits moderate to severe cognitive impairment?

Accepted Answer

Using reminiscence therapy can be particularly effective for clients with dementia, as it helps them recall memories and maintain social interaction, which can improve their quality of life and cognitive function.

Question 9

The nurse is interviewing an older adult client who verbally expresses a personal dilemma about staying in the client's own home or seeking residence in an age-friendly residence. Which information does the nurse seek to determine if the client is suited to this type of change?

Accepted Answer

The nurse needs to assess the client's current level of independence to determine if they can manage living alone or if they would benefit from the support and services provided in an age-friendly residence.

Question 10

A couple who is considered middle-old adults is moving out of state to be closer to family members. Which residence is considered most appropriate for this couple?

Accepted Answer

A one-level living area condominium with good lighting inside and outside is most appropriate for middle-old adults. It minimizes the risk of falls and ensures ease of access throughout the home, which is crucial for aging individuals.

Question 11

The nurse works at a geriatric clinic. The nurse recognizes which situation as the most common major challenge for older adults?

Accepted Answer

Chronic health problems are a major challenge for older adults because they can lead to a loss of independence, impacting their quality of life significantly.

Question 12

The nurse is planning a teaching workshop at the local community center for a group of men and women who are considered young-old. Which information is most important for the nurse to include at the workshop?

Accepted Answer

Planning leisure activities and exercise is crucial for the "young-old" age group (typically defined as those aged 65-74) to maintain physical health, prevent chronic diseases, and promote overall well-being.

Question 13

The nurse is providing care for a 75-year-old patient on the medical-surgical unit. The patient states, "I hope I can go home soon. I want to get back to the gym. I like to do a little walking on the treadmill and lift some light weights." Which response by the nurse demonstrates the use of ageism?

Accepted Answer

C) "At your age, you need to be careful with exercise and avoid injuries." demonstrates ageism by making an assumption based on the patient's age rather than their individual health status or capabilities.

Question 14

The home care nurse suspects physical and emotional abuse of an adult client identified as middle-old. Which is the primary nursing intervention for an older adult who is a victim of abuse?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the safety of the victim is the primary nursing intervention when abuse is suspected. It is crucial to address immediate safety concerns before proceeding with further assessment or intervention strategies.

Question 15

Which factor reflects the nurse's understanding of the characteristics of older adults?

Accepted Answer

Fewer than 5% of all older adults live in nursing homes is a true statement reflecting the understanding of older adults' living situations.

Question 16

The home health nurse is seeing a patient who is 80 years of age for the first time. In developing a home plan of care, which is the nurse's highest priority for this visit?

Accepted Answer

Assessing the home for environmental safety is the highest priority for the nurse when developing a home plan of care for an elderly patient. This is crucial to prevent falls and injuries, which are common and can have serious consequences in this age group. Ensuring a safe environment is foundational before addressing other aspects of care.

Question 17

The nurse is preparing a presentation for older adults regarding alternative living options. Which best describes an assisted living facility (ALF)?

Accepted Answer

An assisted living facility (ALF) is designed to provide residents with 24-hour supervision and assistance, both for scheduled activities and for unscheduled needs that may arise, offering a blend of independence and care.

Question 18

The nurse works as a home visiting nurse for older adult client. Which risk factors for physical abuse of this population does the nurse recognize? Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Socioeconomic status below the poverty level and residence in low-income housing can increase stress and limit resources, potentially leading to abuse. Physical and mental impairments can make older adults more vulnerable to abuse.

Question 19

The nurse in the local nursing home is planning a memory activity for the older adult residents. Which is the most effective activity the nurse might use to enhance memory?

Accepted Answer

Doing a crossword puzzle is an effective memory-enhancing activity because it stimulates cognitive function, encourages problem-solving, and requires recall of vocabulary and general knowledge, which can help in maintaining and improving memory capabilities in older adults.

Question 20

The adult child of a patient who is 82 years of age tells the nurse, "When I ask my dad to do something, it takes him a long time to respond to me. But he does do what I ask." Which is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

Accepted Answer

"Reaction time slows in older adults, so it takes him more time to process your requests." This statement is accurate as it reflects a normal physiological change associated with aging, without implying a reduction in intelligence or the presence of dementia.

Quiz 10: Life Span: Older Adults