ATI RN
basic geriatric nursing 8th edition test bank Questions
Question 1 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.
Question 2 of 9
Which physiological change in the brain is the reason the nurse allows more time for answering questions with older adults?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Atrophy of dendrites in the cerebral cortex. With aging, there is a natural decline in brain volume and synaptic connections, leading to reduced dendritic branching and synaptic density in the cerebral cortex. This affects processing speed and cognitive functions, requiring more time for older adults to respond to questions. Rationale: A: Increased secretion of cholinesterase is not a physiological change associated with aging that would require more time for answering questions. B: Decreased secretion of neurotransmitters may occur with aging but is not the primary reason for slower processing speed in older adults. C: Loss of spinal cord and brainstem neurons is not the main factor influencing older adults' response time to questions compared to atrophy of dendrites in the cerebral cortex.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse is providing a patient education session about gerontologic specialty certification. Which statement is accurate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Gerontological nursing certification focuses on advanced knowledge and skills for caring for older adults. Step 2: This certification is not a requirement for all nurses in long-term care or limited to rehabilitation centers. Step 3: Nurses with various levels of education, not just a master's degree, can obtain gerontological certification. Therefore, option A is correct as it accurately states that gerontological nursing certification signifies advanced knowledge and skills specific to older adult care. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they provide inaccurate information about the certification requirements and scope.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse designs a group exercise program at a senior center. Which room should the nurse choose?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a room with hardwood floor and large windows overlooking a garden area offers a safe, non-slip surface for exercise and natural light for a pleasant environment. Hardwood floors are ideal for exercise to prevent slipping, and the large windows provide a view of the garden area, which can enhance motivation and mood. The other choices are incorrect because A has throw rugs, which can cause tripping hazards, B lacks natural light and ventilation, and D has a linoleum floor which may not be as safe for exercise compared to hardwood.
Question 5 of 9
What is the most significant predictor of successful aging in older adults?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Social engagement and support. Social engagement has been identified as a crucial factor in successful aging, as it contributes to emotional well-being, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. Older adults with strong social networks tend to have better physical and mental health outcomes. Social support can help individuals cope with stress, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and provide a sense of purpose and belonging. Financial security (A) is important but not the most significant predictor. Physical fitness and health (B) are essential but do not solely determine successful aging. Mental resilience (D) is valuable, but the social aspect plays a more significant role in aging successfully.
Question 6 of 9
________ is a factor that contributes to a high incidence of falls in the elderly.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: high likelihood of orthostatic hypotension upon rising quickly. Orthostatic hypotension is a common issue in the elderly, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness and falls. This factor directly contributes to the high incidence of falls in the elderly. Increased muscle mass and tone (A) actually reduce the risk of falls, while improving eyesight in dim light (C) would decrease the risk. Constipation (D) is not directly related to falls in the elderly.
Question 7 of 9
In which context are members of a cohort described when using the age-stratification theory to explain the effect of similar events, conditions, and circumstances?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Historical. In age-stratification theory, cohort members are described in historical context to explain shared experiences. This theory emphasizes that individuals born around the same time experience similar events shaping their lives. Historical context is crucial as it considers the societal, cultural, and economic factors influencing a specific generation. Choice B, Biological, is incorrect as age-stratification theory focuses on social aspects rather than biological ones. Choice C, Sociological, is broad and doesn't specifically address the historical aspect of cohort description. Choice D, Chronological, is incorrect as it simply refers to the order of events without considering the historical backdrop of a cohort's experiences.
Question 8 of 9
Nursing interventions for the client with CHF include all of the following except_____
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because assisting with upper endoscopy is not a standard nursing intervention for CHF. Nursing interventions for CHF focus on managing symptoms, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Choices A, B, and C are correct as they address important aspects of CHF management such as monitoring symptoms, educating on medications, and promoting a low-sodium diet. Helping with an upper endoscopy is unrelated to the management of CHF and falls outside the scope of nursing care for this condition.
Question 9 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.