How does aging affect the immune response in older adults, making them more susceptible to infections?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: The thymus gland is responsible for producing T-cells, crucial for immune responses. As individuals age, the thymus gland shrinks and becomes less efficient, reducing the production of new T-cells. This decline in T-cell production weakens the immune response in older adults, making them more susceptible to infections. Therefore, choice B is correct. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Aging does not increase the production of white blood cells. In fact, the immune system may weaken with age due to a decline in key immune cells. C: Aging does not improve the body's ability to recognize and fight off pathogens. Instead, it often leads to a decline in immune function. D: While some inflammatory responses may increase with age, excessive inflammation can actually be harmful and contribute to age-related diseases, rather than providing protection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertension. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most common chronic condition affecting older adults in the U.S. This is because aging increases the risk of developing hypertension due to changes in blood vessels and the heart. Hypertension can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease and stroke. Summary: B: Osteoporosis primarily affects bone density and is more common in older women. C: Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that affects memory and cognitive function, but it is not as prevalent as hypertension among older adults. D: Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels and while it is common, hypertension is more prevalent in older adults in the U.S.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because antibiotics are not standard therapy for congestive heart failure in the elderly. The rationale is that antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not heart failure. A: ACE inhibitors are standard therapy as they help dilate blood vessels and reduce the workload on the heart. C: Diuretics help reduce fluid buildup in the body, which is beneficial for managing CHF symptoms. D: Beta blockers are used to reduce the heart's workload and help manage the stress response, making them standard therapy for CHF.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, regular exercise to improve strength and balance. This is the most effective strategy for preventing falls in older adults because it helps increase muscle strength, improve balance, and enhance coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Exercise also improves overall mobility and flexibility, which are essential for preventing falls. Installing bed alarms (A) may alert staff after a fall but does not prevent falls. Using medications to sedate the patient (B) can increase the risk of falls due to dizziness and impaired balance. Restricting movement (D) can lead to muscle weakness and loss of balance, increasing the risk of falls.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because storytelling allows older clients to recall and share past experiences, promoting reminiscence. Storytelling evokes memories and encourages clients to reflect on their lives. Playing cards, painting, and watching movies do not necessarily prompt reminiscence as effectively as storytelling does. Playing cards and painting are activities that may not directly stimulate reminiscence, and watching movies may not engage clients in personal reflection as much as storytelling does.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitoring for electrolyte imbalances and adjusting medications accordingly. In advanced CKD, electrolyte imbalances can worsen kidney function and lead to complications. Monitoring electrolytes like potassium and adjusting medications such as diuretics is crucial. A: Initiating early dialysis is not always necessary and should be based on individual patient factors. B: Avoiding all medications is not feasible as some medications are essential and can be adjusted based on kidney function. D: Limiting fluid intake to less than 500 mL per day is too restrictive and can lead to dehydration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increasing protein intake. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength in older adults, aiding in the prevention and management of malnutrition. Protein also supports immune function and wound healing. Reducing calorie intake (A) can exacerbate malnutrition, as older adults need adequate nutrition. Avoiding all fats (C) is not recommended as healthy fats are essential for brain health and nutrient absorption. Limiting hydration (D) can lead to dehydration and worsen malnutrition. In summary, increasing protein intake is the most important factor in managing malnutrition in older adults due to its vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing muscle loss.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Conduct interviews for specific interests. This intervention allows the nurse to tailor activities to the individual preferences of the older women, promoting engagement and a sense of autonomy. By conducting interviews, the nurse can identify each person's unique interests and preferences, ensuring that the activities planned are meaningful and enjoyable for them. This personalized approach enhances the overall well-being of the residents. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not focus on individual interests and preferences. While baking cookies, arranging pet visits, and attending library events can be enjoyable activities for some individuals, they may not be suitable or engaging for all residents in the specified age group and setting. These options lack the personalization and customization that conducting interviews for specific interests provides, making them less effective in meeting the diverse needs and preferences of the older women in the assisted-living facility.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because a decrease in alveolar elasticity is not a physical change that directly leads to an increasing incidence of hypertension in the older adult. Arterial stiffening and loss of elasticity (choice A) can lead to increased blood pressure. Changes in renal regulation of sodium and water (choice B) can impact fluid balance and blood pressure. Increasing body weight (choice D) can contribute to hypertension through increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Therefore, a decrease in alveolar elasticity is not directly related to hypertension in the same way as the other choices.