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

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increasing protein intake. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength in older adults, aiding in the prevention and management of malnutrition. Protein also supports immune function and wound healing. Reducing calorie intake (A) can exacerbate malnutrition, as older adults need adequate nutrition. Avoiding all fats (C) is not recommended as healthy fats are essential for brain health and nutrient absorption. Limiting hydration (D) can lead to dehydration and worsen malnutrition. In summary, increasing protein intake is the most important factor in managing malnutrition in older adults due to its vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing muscle loss.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because maintaining good eye contact and a relaxed, smiling approach can help establish a sense of trust and connection with persons with dementia. This approach can help reduce feelings of confusion and anxiety in individuals with dementia, improving communication and fostering a positive interaction. A: Asking open-ended questions may overwhelm individuals with dementia and make it difficult for them to process information. B: Talking to persons with dementia as you would a child is inappropriate and disrespectful, as it disregards their dignity and autonomy. D: Reminding individuals with dementia not to forget something can be frustrating and may lead to feelings of failure or inadequacy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Conducting regular reviews allows nurses to assess the necessity and appropriateness of each medication, addressing potential drug interactions, duplications, and side effects in elderly patients. Step 2: This proactive approach helps prevent polypharmacy-related complications and ensures optimal medication management. Step 3: Ensuring medications are taken exactly as directed (A) may not address the root cause of polypharmacy. Recommending over-the-counter medications (C) without proper evaluation can worsen the issue. Administering medications only during hospital stays (D) is not a comprehensive solution outside of the hospital setting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a red, swollen 3-day-old wound in an older person indicates delayed wound healing, which is abnormal. The skin's ability to heal slows down with age due to decreased collagen production and compromised immune response. Thinner and more fragile skin (choice A) are typical changes in older individuals but not necessarily abnormal. Greater number of freckles (choice C) is a common age-related change due to accumulated sun exposure. Loss of hair on the extremities (choice D) can occur with aging but is not necessarily abnormal unless it is sudden and widespread.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because older adults with chronic conditions are often prescribed multiple medications to manage their various health issues, leading to polypharmacy and increased risk of adverse drug reactions. This challenge can result in medication mismanagement, drug interactions, and medication non-adherence. The other choices are incorrect because comorbidities are common in older adults, medical intervention is generally accepted, and older adults often experience declines in physical and cognitive health with age.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it highlights a common issue in nursing education where gerontological nursing content is often underrepresented, with less than 25% of the curriculum dedicated to geriatric care. This is accurate as many nursing programs prioritize other areas over gerontology. A is incorrect as gerontological nursing integration has historically been lacking in nursing curricula. B is incorrect because undergraduate programs often lack extensive coverage of gerontological nursing compared to other specialties like psychiatric nursing. D is incorrect as accreditation does not guarantee specific proportions of gerontological nursing content in the curriculum. Thus, choice C is the most accurate statement regarding gerontological nursing education.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because social aging refers to changes in a person's roles and relationships as they age. Retiring from a job is a significant social change that typically accompanies aging. This indicates a shift in the man's social status and activities, which aligns with the concept of social aging. B, C, and D are incorrect because taking multiple medications, using a walker, and celebrating a 65th birthday are not direct indicators of social aging. While these factors may be related to aging, they do not specifically address the social aspects of aging, which is the focus of the question.