ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 of 5
An older woman with a UTI reports mild symptoms and a low-grade fever. Why didn’t she develop a higher temperature?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because normal age-related immune changes can result in a lower fever response to illness in older adults. As people age, their immune system may not respond as vigorously to infections, leading to a muted fever response. This explains why the older woman with a UTI experienced only mild symptoms and a low-grade fever. Choice A is incorrect because the seriousness of a UTI does not necessarily correlate with the presence or absence of a fever. Choice C is incorrect as older adults can still develop fevers in response to infections. Choice D is incorrect as it is too broad and does not specifically address the age-related immune changes that impact fever response in older adults.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse observes older women learning advanced knitting techniques. The nurse concludes that this learning activity is suitable for these women because it accomplishes which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because learning advanced knitting techniques adds to the existing knowledge base of older women. This activity stimulates cognitive functioning, enhances problem-solving skills, and fosters creativity. It also helps maintain mental acuity and memory. Choice A is incorrect because although knitting may involve hand movements, it primarily benefits cognitive functions. Choice B is incorrect as the primary focus is on individual learning rather than group cohesion. Choice C is incorrect as the main purpose of the activity is intellectual growth rather than social interaction.
Question 3 of 5
An older woman retires after a long career as an elementary school principal and begins to volunteer in the local library reading to children. The older woman is very pleased with her volunteer activities. This is consistent with which theory of aging?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Role theory. Role theory suggests that individuals continue to seek fulfilling roles and activities in older age to maintain a sense of purpose and identity. In this scenario, the older woman's transition from a career as a school principal to volunteering at the library aligns with the idea of seeking meaningful roles. B: Disengagement theory posits that older adults withdraw from society as they age, which contradicts the woman's active engagement in volunteering. C: Age-stratification theory focuses on how age influences opportunities and constraints within society, not on individual choices like volunteering. D: Social exchange theory emphasizes reciprocal relationships and benefits gained from social interactions, which is not the primary focus in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse in an assisted living facility is planning an educational program on exercise for the residents. The nurse needs to consider which of the following when planning the activity?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because using large size fonts on written material is important for elderly individuals in assisted living facilities who may have visual impairments. This accommodation ensures that the residents can easily read and understand the information being presented. This is crucial for effective communication and engagement in the educational program. A: While using simple language is generally beneficial, the primary concern for this specific population is visual accessibility rather than language complexity. C: Providing the program in a quiet area is important for minimizing distractions, but it is not as critical as ensuring the residents can read the material. D: While building on prior knowledge is a good practice in teaching, it is secondary to ensuring that the information is visually accessible to the residents.
Question 5 of 5
Which gerontological nursing organization welcomes nurses from all educational backgrounds?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The National Gerontological Nursing Association (NGNA). NGNA welcomes nurses from all educational backgrounds, focusing on gerontological nursing practice. The other choices have specific focuses: B is for nurse practitioners, C is for directors of nursing administration, and D is for professionals in the field of aging. NGNA's inclusivity makes it the correct choice for nurses from all educational backgrounds interested in gerontological nursing.