An elderly woman is brought to the clinic by her daughter. The client states that she has had a cold for several days. Her daughter states that her mother has been confused about when her routine medications are to be taken and that her mother has never experienced confusion before. Based on this information, it is important that the nurse ask the client whether:

Questions 84

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Age Specific Populations Questions

Question 1 of 5

An elderly woman is brought to the clinic by her daughter. The client states that she has had a cold for several days. Her daughter states that her mother has been confused about when her routine medications are to be taken and that her mother has never experienced confusion before. Based on this information, it is important that the nurse ask the client whether:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: There is a history of mental illness in the family. This is important because the sudden onset of confusion in an elderly person could be indicative of a new mental health issue or cognitive decline. Asking about a family history of mental illness can provide valuable insights into potential genetic predispositions or underlying conditions that may be contributing to the client's confusion. Choices B and C are incorrect because the client's own history of mental health diagnosis or ability to recall a physician visit are not directly related to the sudden onset of confusion. Choice D is incorrect because asking about a family history of mental illness could provide crucial information in understanding the client's current condition.

Question 2 of 5

A patient admitted to the eating disorders unit has yellow skin, the extremities are cold, and the heart rate is 42 bpm. The patient weighs 70 pounds; height is 5 feet 4 inches. The patient is quiet during the assessment, saying only, 'I will not eat until I lose enough weight to look thin.' Select the best initial nursing diagnosis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (D): None of the above is the best initial nursing diagnosis because the patient's symptoms suggest a severe medical condition rather than psychological issues. The yellow skin, cold extremities, low heart rate, extreme low weight, and refusal to eat indicate severe malnutrition and possible organ failure. Therefore, the priority is to address the patient's immediate medical needs, such as restoring electrolyte balance and preventing further complications. Psychological assessments and diagnoses can follow once the patient's physical health is stabilized. Summary of Other Choices: A: Anxiety related to fear of weight gain - This choice focuses on psychological factors, but the patient's symptoms indicate severe physical malnutrition rather than anxiety. B: Disturbed body image related to weight loss - While body image issues may be present, the patient's critical medical condition takes precedence over psychological concerns. C: Ineffective coping related to lack of conflict resolution skills - This choice does not address the urgency of the patient's physical symptoms and is not the most

Question 3 of 5

The wife of a client who is being seen in the sleep clinic states that her husband snores terribly at night and that she has to shake him to get him to stop. The client complains of a headache upon wakening and often falls asleep during the day when he sits for long periods. This client is exhibiting signs and symptoms characteristic of:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sleep apnea. This client is showing classic signs of obstructive sleep apnea, including loud snoring, waking up with headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Snoring and the need for physical stimulation to stop snoring are common in sleep apnea. The headaches may be due to disrupted sleep patterns and oxygen deprivation. Excessive daytime sleepiness is a result of poor quality sleep. Choice A (Narcolepsy) is incorrect because narcolepsy is characterized by sudden, uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep during the day, often accompanied by cataplexy and sleep paralysis, which are not mentioned in the scenario. Choice B (Parasomnia) is incorrect because parasomnias involve abnormal behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking or night terrors, which are not described in the scenario. Choice D (None of the above) is incorrect because the symptoms described align with obstructive sleep apnea.

Question 4 of 5

What is the primary nursing intervention for a patient with anorexia nervosa who is refusing to eat?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because providing firm encouragement and offering small, frequent meals is a supportive approach to help the patient with anorexia nervosa overcome their fear of eating. It helps in gradually reintroducing food, building trust, and establishing a healthier eating pattern. Offering rewards (A) may reinforce unhealthy eating behaviors. Enforcing strict diet control (C) can exacerbate control issues and worsen the patient's condition. Allowing the patient to skip meals (D) can perpetuate malnutrition and reinforce avoidance behaviors.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is assessing a patient with anorexia nervosa. What is the most important physical examination finding to monitor?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Height and weight changes. In anorexia nervosa, monitoring height and weight changes is crucial as it reflects the patient's nutritional status and overall health. Weight loss and changes in height can indicate severe malnutrition and potential complications. Blood pressure and heart rate (choice A) can be affected by various factors in anorexia nervosa but may not directly reflect the patient's nutritional status. Skin turgor and hydration status (choice C) are important indicators of hydration levels but may not provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient's nutritional status. Respiratory rate and lung function (choice D) are important, but they may not be the most critical physical examination findings to monitor in anorexia nervosa.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions