ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 of 5
When caring for an older adult with advanced heart failure, which intervention is most likely to improve the patient's quality of life?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing palliative care focused on symptom management and comfort. This is the most appropriate intervention for an older adult with advanced heart failure as it prioritizes quality of life by focusing on alleviating symptoms and ensuring comfort. High-dose diuretics (choice
A) may lead to electrolyte imbalances and worsen the patient's condition. Initiating aggressive cardiac surgery (choice
C) may be too risky and invasive for an older adult with advanced heart failure. Enforcing strict bed rest (choice
D) can lead to deconditioning and muscle wasting, further compromising the patient's quality of life.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse observes older women learning advanced knitting techniques. The nurse concludes that this learning activity is suitable for these women because it accomplishes which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because learning advanced knitting techniques adds to the existing knowledge base of older women. This activity stimulates cognitive functioning, enhances problem-solving skills, and fosters creativity. It also helps maintain mental acuity and memory.
Choice A is incorrect because although knitting may involve hand movements, it primarily benefits cognitive functions.
Choice B is incorrect as the primary focus is on individual learning rather than group cohesion.
Choice C is incorrect as the main purpose of the activity is intellectual growth rather than social interaction.
Question 3 of 5
What is the primary consideration when initiating care for older adults with palliative care needs?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Identifying goals of care through open conversations with the patient and family. This is crucial because palliative care for older adults should be person-centered and align with their preferences and values. By engaging in open conversations, healthcare providers can understand the individual's goals, values, and wishes, allowing for care to be tailored accordingly. This approach emphasizes holistic care beyond just managing pain and considers the patient's emotional, spiritual, and social needs.
Incorrect choices:
A: Focusing primarily on managing pain with medications overlooks the importance of addressing other aspects of care.
C: Avoiding advanced medical treatments is not always appropriate as each situation should be assessed individually.
D: Prescribing hospice care immediately may not be necessary or desired by the patient, as it depends on their specific needs and preferences.
Question 4 of 5
Mr. Abramson has been diagnosed with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) by his primary care provider. The most likely symptoms that prompted him to initially seek health care is___
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nocturia. Nocturia, or waking up at night to urinate, is a common symptom of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) due to the enlarged prostate pressing on the urethra, causing urinary frequency and urgency. Other symptoms like weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, incomplete emptying, and dribbling may also be present. Recurrent urinary tract infections (
B) are less likely to be the initial symptom of BPH, as they are more commonly associated with urinary retention or obstruction. Functional incontinence (
C) is not a typical symptom of BPH, as it is more related to mobility or cognitive issues. Hematuria (
D) is not a common presenting symptom of BPH, as it is more indicative of other conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
Question 5 of 5
Which approach requires the nurse to integrate and balance all aspects of an individual’s life into the plan of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Holistic nursing is the correct answer because it considers the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of an individual's life in the care plan. It emphasizes treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. Healthy People 2020 focuses on improving the overall health of the population. Maslow's hierarchy of needs prioritizes basic human needs. Orem's self-care requirements focus on the individual's ability to care for themselves. Holistic nursing is the only approach that integrates and balances all aspects of an individual's life into the care plan, making it the most comprehensive and patient-centered approach.