A community health nurse provides a flu prevention workshop at a senior center. Which theory of aging underpins these activities?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Immunologic theory. This theory of aging focuses on the decline in immune function as individuals age, making them more vulnerable to infections like the flu. The flu prevention workshop at the senior center aligns with this theory by aiming to boost seniors' immune systems to reduce their susceptibility to the flu. A: Free radical theory attributes aging to the accumulation of damage caused by reactive oxygen species, not specifically related to immune function. C: Oxidative stress theory is similar to the free radical theory in emphasizing the role of oxidative damage in aging, not directly related to immune function. D: Telomere theory suggests that cellular aging is influenced by the shortening of telomeres, which is not directly related to immune function or flu prevention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "It is the brain's ability to maintain function despite age-related changes and pathology." Cognitive reserve in older adults refers to the brain's ability to withstand age-related changes and pathology while maintaining cognitive function. This concept suggests that individuals with higher cognitive reserve may show fewer cognitive deficits even in the presence of brain damage or pathology. Choice A is incorrect because cognitive reserve is not about compensating for damage through enhanced neurogenesis but rather about maintaining function despite changes. Choice B is incorrect because cognitive reserve is not specifically about the relationship between cognitive decline and physical health; it focuses on maintaining cognitive function. Choice D is incorrect because cognitive reserve is not about developing new cognitive abilities later in life but rather preserving existing cognitive function.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: cerebral vascular disease. Microvascular changes in diabetes mainly affect small blood vessels in organs like the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), and nerves (neuropathy). Cerebral vascular disease involves larger blood vessels in the brain, not typically considered a result of microvascular changes in diabetes. Retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy are well-documented complications of uncontrolled diabetes due to damage to small blood vessels in these specific organs.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because assigning female nurses to older women who are Islamic respects their cultural and religious beliefs, promoting holistic care. This approach considers the older adult's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs, aligning with the principles of holistic nursing care. Choice A is incorrect because performing glucose testing during a weekly worship service does not necessarily address the older adult's holistic needs. Choice B is incorrect as simply wheeling ambulatory adults to exercise when running late does not encompass a holistic approach. Choice D is incorrect as allowing older adults in a nursing home to eat meals alone may neglect their social and emotional well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Loss of a spouse or close family member. This is the most significant predictor of social isolation in older adults because losing a spouse or close family member can result in decreased social interactions and emotional support. This loss can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Incorrect options: A: Lack of access to healthcare - While lack of access to healthcare can impact overall health, it is not the primary factor contributing to social isolation. B: Limited income and resources - Financial constraints can affect social activities, but they are not as impactful as losing a loved one. D: High levels of physical activity - While physical activity is important for overall well-being, it is not directly correlated with social isolation in older adults.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because increasing medications would not directly address xerostomia. Xerostomia is dry mouth, often caused by decreased saliva production. Using humidifiers (A) helps increase moisture in the air, mouth rinses/artificial saliva (B) lubricate the mouth, and sugar-free hard candies (C) stimulate saliva production. Increasing medications (D) would not target the root cause of xerostomia and may even exacerbate dry mouth symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "The unknown may be frightening. Do you want to talk about this?" This response acknowledges the patient's fear and offers an opportunity for the patient to express their concerns. It shows empathy and encourages open communication. Choice B is incorrect because it assumes all religious people share the same belief, which may not be the case for this patient. Choice C is incorrect as it imposes experiences of others onto the patient, which may not align with their beliefs or feelings. Choice D is incorrect as it assumes the patient's feelings without giving them a chance to express themselves.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because decreasing fiber in the diet can actually worsen constipation. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements by adding bulk to the stool. Walking and staying hydrated (choices A and D) are effective strategies to prevent constipation. Having a daily bowel movement (choice C) is a positive sign of bowel health. By choosing to decrease fiber intake, the client may inadvertently reduce the effectiveness of their bowel movements, leading to constipation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because swelling in one leg with pitting edema is a classic sign of DVT. Pitting edema suggests fluid accumulation due to compromised venous circulation, which is common in DVT. Bilateral calf tenderness (choice A) is more indicative of muscle strain. Shortness of breath (choice C) is suggestive of a pulmonary embolism, a complication of DVT. Two plus palpable pulses (choice D) indicate good arterial circulation, not DVT.