ATI RN
geriatric nursing practice questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
A 75 yr old client is recovering from abdominal surgery. The DR. has ordered morphine 2-6 mg every 4 hrs prn for pain. As the nurse plans to administer this medication, what intervention would the nurse choose to administer this drug to an older person?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: administer the lowest dose of 2 mg. In older adults, especially the elderly, it is essential to start with the lowest effective dose of medication to minimize the risk of adverse effects. This approach follows the principle of "start low and go slow" when administering medications to older adults due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and increased sensitivity to medications. Administering the lowest effective dose helps to reduce the risk of potential complications such as respiratory depression, sedation, and falls. Choice A (administer the highest dose of 6 mg) is incorrect because starting with the highest dose can increase the risk of adverse effects in older adults. Choice C (avoid the narcotic because of the risk of addiction) is incorrect as it is important to manage pain effectively in post-operative patients, and opioids can be safely used under proper supervision. Choice D (administer the dose only when the client asks for the medication 2 times) is incorrect as pain management should be
Question 2 of 9
The term health disparity is defined as
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because health disparities refer to variations in health outcomes between different groups, often linked to social, economic, or environmental factors. This definition accurately captures the essence of health disparities by emphasizing the differences in health outcomes among various populations. Choice A is incorrect because it describes cultural elimination rather than health disparities. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on statistical comparison rather than the health outcomes themselves. Choice D is incorrect as it discusses differing values and perspectives, which are not directly related to health disparities. In summary, choice B is the correct answer as it aligns with the definition and concept of health disparities.
Question 3 of 9
What is the primary consideration when managing an older adult with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitoring for electrolyte imbalances and adjusting medications accordingly. In advanced CKD, electrolyte imbalances can worsen kidney function and lead to complications. Monitoring electrolytes like potassium and adjusting medications such as diuretics is crucial. A: Initiating early dialysis is not always necessary and should be based on individual patient factors. B: Avoiding all medications is not feasible as some medications are essential and can be adjusted based on kidney function. D: Limiting fluid intake to less than 500 mL per day is too restrictive and can lead to dehydration.
Question 4 of 9
An older married couple move to a continuing care retirement community. The older woman who was always very social and outgoing quickly joins an exercise group, a book club, and a knitting circle. The older man who was always very solitary adopts a routine of a long daily walk and registers for an online course in creative writing. The behaviors of the older couple are consistent with which theory of aging?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Continuity theory. This theory suggests that as individuals age, they strive to maintain a sense of consistency in their activities, interests, and relationships. In this scenario, both the older woman and man are adapting their lifestyles to maintain a sense of continuity with their past selves. The woman continues to engage in social activities, reflecting her outgoing nature, while the man maintains his solitary habits but explores new interests, such as creative writing, to fulfill his need for personal growth. A: Activity theory focuses on the idea that continued engagement in activities leads to a higher quality of life in old age. While the older woman's active engagement aligns with this theory, the older man's solitary activities do not fully support this concept. C: Social exchange theory emphasizes the balance of costs and benefits in social relationships. This theory is not directly applicable to the scenario as it does not address the individuals' personal activities and interests. D: Disengagement theory suggests that older adults gradually withdraw
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following are true statements about older adults and use of computer technology?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because older adults are indeed the fastest growing population using computers and the Internet due to increasing digital literacy and accessibility. Choice B is incorrect as research shows older adults are increasingly using social networking sites. Choice C is incorrect as many older adults do perceive the Internet as a valuable resource. Choice D is also incorrect as older adults are utilizing the Internet to connect with their healthcare providers more frequently.
Question 6 of 9
What is the best approach to managing polypharmacy in older adults?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Regular review and adjustment of medications by healthcare providers. This approach is the best because it involves healthcare professionals regularly assessing the appropriateness of each medication, adjusting dosages, and eliminating unnecessary drugs to minimize potential adverse effects and drug interactions in older adults. This proactive management strategy ensures that the patient's medication regimen is optimized for their specific health needs, reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy. Choice A (Regular use of over-the-counter medications) is incorrect as it does not address the issue of polypharmacy and may actually contribute to it. Choice B (Reducing the number of medications based on patient preferences) is not the best approach as patient preferences alone may not always align with the most effective and safe medication regimen. Choice D (Relying solely on herbal supplements) is also incorrect as herbal supplements can interact with prescribed medications, leading to potential complications.
Question 7 of 9
What is the most effective strategy for preventing falls in older adults?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, regular exercise to improve strength and balance. This is the most effective strategy for preventing falls in older adults because it helps increase muscle strength, improve balance, and enhance coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Exercise also improves overall mobility and flexibility, which are essential for preventing falls. Installing bed alarms (A) may alert staff after a fall but does not prevent falls. Using medications to sedate the patient (B) can increase the risk of falls due to dizziness and impaired balance. Restricting movement (D) can lead to muscle weakness and loss of balance, increasing the risk of falls.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse is working with older clients in a long term care facility. Which activities performed by the nurse fosters reminiscence among these clients?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because storytelling allows older clients to recall and share past experiences, promoting reminiscence. Storytelling evokes memories and encourages clients to reflect on their lives. Playing cards, painting, and watching movies do not necessarily prompt reminiscence as effectively as storytelling does. Playing cards and painting are activities that may not directly stimulate reminiscence, and watching movies may not engage clients in personal reflection as much as storytelling does.
Question 9 of 9
All of the following except ______ are risk factors for an elderly person developing tuberculosis.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Being adequately nourished. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections like tuberculosis. Diabetes (A), living in crowded institutions (B), and immunosuppression (D) all lower immunity, increasing the risk of developing TB. In summary, adequate nutrition is not a risk factor for TB in the elderly, while diabetes, institutional living, and immunosuppression are.