An older patient who was just diagnosed with a terminal disease states, "All my life I attended church, but I am still worried about what will happen after death." The nurse's best response is which of the following?

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: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Aging causes decreased collagen production, leading to decreased skin elasticity and thinning. 2. Loss of subcutaneous fat contributes to the appearance of aging skin. 3. Wrinkles and sagging are common signs of decreased skin elasticity in older adults. 4. Increased muscle mass, increased cardiac output, and increased renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes. Summary: Skin changes such as decreased elasticity and thinning are common in older adults due to reduced collagen production and loss of subcutaneous fat. Increased muscle mass, cardiac output, and renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because ethnicity involves recognized traditions, symbols, and literature. This statement aligns with the topic of culture and illness, as ethnicity plays a significant role in shaping cultural beliefs and practices related to health and illness. It highlights the importance of cultural elements in understanding how different ethnic groups perceive and address health issues. A: Culture is not the same as ethnicity; culture encompasses a broader range of beliefs and practices. B: This choice is incorrect as ethnic groups can have diverse origins and religions. D: Most members of an ethnic group do not exhibit identical cultural traits as cultural diversity exists within ethnic groups.

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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Life review is a highly personal activity. This is because life review involves reflecting on past experiences, relationships, and accomplishments, which are unique to each individual. It is a process of self-reflection and introspection that helps individuals make sense of their lives and find meaning. Option A is incorrect because life review can occur at any point in an individual's life, not just at the very end. Option B is incorrect as reminiscence focuses on recalling past events, while life review involves deeper reflection and analysis. Option D is incorrect because while life review can promote self-awareness, it is primarily a reflective process rather than a tool for setting new goals.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Genetic research. Telomere shortening is primarily based on the theory of cellular senescence, which is related to genetic research. Telomeres are protective caps at the end of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Genetic research has shown that telomere shortening is associated with aging and age-related diseases. Caloric restriction, oxidative stress, and cross-link theories of aging are not directly linked to telomere shortening. Caloric restriction focuses on extending lifespan by reducing calorie intake, oxidative stress theory suggests that aging is caused by cumulative damage from reactive oxygen species, and cross-link theory emphasizes the accumulation of non-reversible bonds between molecules as a cause of aging.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diabetes. Healthy People 2020 focuses on improving the health of older adults, and diabetes is a chronic condition prevalent in this population. It can significantly impact health, function, and quality of life if not managed properly. Diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems. By targeting diabetes, the goal is to prevent these complications and improve overall health outcomes for older adults. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B: Arthritis - While arthritis is common in older adults, it is not a targeted chronic focus area identified by Healthy People 2020 for this population. C: Congestive heart failure - Although heart health is important, congestive heart failure is not specifically highlighted as a priority for improvement in older adults by Healthy People 2020. D: Dementia - Dementia is a serious concern in the aging population, but it is not one of the targeted chronic focus areas identified by Healthy People 202

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: 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.