ATI RN
basic geriatric nursing 8th edition test bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
A retirement community is divided into different communities with different activities available for the residents. There is one community for individuals ages 65 to 74 years, one for individuals ages 75 to 85 years, and one for individuals older than age 85 years. This is consistent with which theory of aging?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Age-stratification theory. This theory suggests that age is a powerful determinant of social organization. In the given scenario, the retirement community is structured based on age groups, indicating stratification by age. This separation aligns with the concept of age-based social hierarchies and differing opportunities and resources based on age. Choice A (Role theory) focuses on how individuals adapt to social roles as they age, which is not directly reflected in the scenario. Choice B (Disengagement theory) posits that aging individuals withdraw from societal roles, which is not evident in the active engagement of residents in different age-specific communities. Choice D (Social exchange theory) emphasizes the relationships individuals form based on rewards and costs, which is not the primary focus in the scenario compared to the age-based stratification.
Question 2 of 9
Which of the following medications should be avoided in older adults due to the increased risk of falls?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, increasing the risk of falls in older adults. They can also impair balance and coordination. Older adults are more sensitive to these effects due to age-related changes in metabolism and increased risk of cognitive impairment. Beta-blockers (A), statins (C), and antihypertensives (D) are generally safe in older adults and do not directly increase the risk of falls. Beta-blockers can sometimes cause dizziness but are more commonly associated with bradycardia. Statins are used to lower cholesterol levels and do not affect fall risk. Antihypertensives help lower blood pressure and can actually reduce the risk of falls by preventing conditions like orthostatic hypotension.
Question 3 of 9
An older women tells the nurse that her husband seldom brushes his teeth as he did in the past. A reason why older clients stop participating in daily oral hygiene, such as brushing the teeth, include:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased manual dexterity and inability to hold a toothbrush. As people age, they may experience decreased hand strength and motor skills, making it difficult to hold and manipulate objects like a toothbrush. This can lead to a decline in oral hygiene practices. Malocclusion of teeth (B) does not directly impact the ability to brush teeth. Decrease in taste acuity (C) may affect appetite but not tooth brushing habits. Lack of dental insurance (D) is a financial barrier and may affect access to dental care, but it does not directly impact the physical ability to brush teeth.
Question 4 of 9
Which of the following interventions has been shown to delay the onset of dementia in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consistent mental and physical activity. Engaging in mental and physical activities can help improve cognitive function, increase brain plasticity, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Regular stimulation of the brain through activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can help delay the onset of dementia. Physical activity also promotes overall brain health by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A: Strict dietary restrictions may have some benefits for overall health, but there is limited evidence to suggest that it directly delays the onset of dementia. C: Regular social isolation can actually increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, as social interaction is important for brain health. D: Pharmacologic interventions to control hypertension may be important for overall health, but they are not specifically shown to delay the onset of dementia in older adults.
Question 5 of 9
The gerontological nurse collaborates with the wound care team about an older patient who has an ulcer. How is this nurse demonstrating leadership in the care of older people?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Coordinating members of the health care team. This demonstrates leadership as the nurse is taking charge of organizing and communicating with various healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for the older patient. By collaborating with the wound care team, the nurse shows effective coordination and communication skills, which are crucial in managing complex cases in older adults. Assessing older adults effectively (choice A) is important but does not specifically address leadership in coordinating care. Facilitating access to eldercare programs (choice B) is important but does not directly demonstrate leadership in coordinating care. Empowering older adults to manage chronic illness (choice D) is important for patient education but does not directly show leadership in coordinating the healthcare team.
Question 6 of 9
An older adult who is a traditional Chinese man has a blood pressure of 80/54 mm Hg and refuses to remain in the bed. Which intervention should the nurse use to promote and maintain his health?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is correct as it involves understanding the patient's beliefs and preferences, crucial in culturally competent care. A would not address the patient's perspective directly. B is broad and lacks specificity. D assumes all traditional Chinese individuals seek Chinese medicine, which may not be the case.
Question 7 of 9
Which common cognitive impairment is often mistaken for normal aging in older adults?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is often mistaken for normal aging because it involves subtle changes in memory and thinking abilities that are beyond what is expected for age but not severe enough to be classified as dementia. Individuals with MCI may experience forgetfulness or difficulty with complex tasks, which can be misconstrued as typical age-related changes. Alzheimer's disease (B), dementia with Lewy bodies (C), and vascular dementia (D) are all forms of dementia characterized by more significant cognitive decline and functional impairment compared to MCI, making them less likely to be confused with normal aging.
Question 8 of 9
Mr. J has been admitted to the hospital from her own home. The admitting nurse notes that the patient has severe edema in the lower extremities, no hair on the legs, and ulcerations on her feet. These signs and symptoms are most likely indications of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Circulatory problems related to age and a chronic illness. Severe edema, hair loss on the legs, and foot ulcerations are indicative of poor circulation, often seen in conditions like peripheral artery disease. Age and chronic illnesses can contribute to circulatory issues. A diet low in protein (choice A) would not directly cause these symptoms. Exposure to cold (choice B) would not explain the specific symptoms mentioned. Frequent falls (choice C) do not align with the symptoms provided.
Question 9 of 9
All of the following except ___are risk factors for an elderly person developing pneumonia.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diarrhea. Diarrhea is not a risk factor for developing pneumonia in elderly individuals. The rationale for this is that pneumonia is primarily caused by respiratory infections, not gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. Neurological disease, heart failure, and COPD are all risk factors for pneumonia because they can weaken the immune system or impair lung function, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections. These conditions can lead to aspiration, impaired cough reflex, or compromised lung function, increasing the likelihood of developing pneumonia.