Before assessing an older adult patient, the nurse reviews the age-related changes in the ear. (See accompanying box.) After the assessment, the nurse recognizes which priority concern related to the finding of vestibular degeneration? $\begin{array}{|llcc|}
\hline\text { Age-Related Change: The Inner Ear }\
\hline \text { Loss of hair cells, }\downarrow \text { blood supply, less flexible basilar membrane, degeneration of spiral }\
\text { ganglion cells, and } \downarrow \text { production of endolymph result in progressive hearing loss with age }\
\text { (presbycusis) and hearing aids may be required. }\
\hline \text { High-frequency sounds are lost; middle- and low-frequency sounds may also be lost or }\
\text { decreased, which may distort speech. }\
\hline\text { Vestibular structures degenerate; organ of Corti and cochlea atrophy resulting in loss of }\
\text { equilibrium. }\
\hline
\end{array}$

Question

Before assessing an older adult patient, the nurse reviews the age-related changes in the ear. (See accompanying box.) After the assessment, the nurse recognizes which priority concern related to the finding of vestibular degeneration? $\begin{array}{|llcc|}
\hline\text { Age-Related Change: The Inner Ear }\
\hline \text { Loss of hair cells, }\downarrow \text { blood supply, less flexible basilar membrane, degeneration of spiral }\
\text { ganglion cells, and } \downarrow \text { production of endolymph result in progressive hearing loss with age }\
\text { (presbycusis) and hearing aids may be required. }\
\hline  \text { High-frequency sounds are lost; middle- and low-frequency sounds may also be lost or }\
\text { decreased, which may distort speech. }\
\hline\text { Vestibular structures degenerate; organ of Corti and cochlea atrophy resulting in loss of }\
\text { equilibrium. }\
\hline
\end{array}$

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The finding of vestibular degeneration increases the risk for falls and fall prevention should be a priority concern for the nurse. Skin breakdown, nausea, and low night vision are not directly related to vestibular degeneration.

Before Assessing an Older Adult Patient, the Nurse Reviews the Age-Related