How should gerontological nurses address the issue of polypharmacy in older adults?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because regularly reviewing and adjusting medications can help minimize adverse effects of polypharmacy in older adults. This approach ensures that the medications are appropriate, necessary, and not causing harm. A: Encouraging herbal supplements is not a recommended approach as they can interact with prescription medications. B: Prioritizing over-the-counter medications may not address the complexities of polypharmacy and can still contribute to drug interactions. D: Limiting patient discussions about medications can lead to misunderstandings and non-adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because older adults are indeed the fastest growing population using computers and the Internet due to increasing digital literacy and accessibility. Choice B is incorrect as research shows older adults are increasingly using social networking sites. Choice C is incorrect as many older adults do perceive the Internet as a valuable resource. Choice D is also incorrect as older adults are utilizing the Internet to connect with their healthcare providers more frequently.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Standards of gerontological nursing practice, as the ANA Scope and Standards of Gerontological Nursing (2010) specifically outlines the accepted standards and guidelines for gerontological nursing practice. This document does not focus on skills and knowledge (Choice A), levels of practice (Choice B), or certification requirements (Choice C), but rather on setting the standards and expectations for gerontological nursing care. It is essential for nurses to adhere to these standards to provide high-quality care to older adults.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because regularly reviewing and adjusting medications can help minimize adverse effects of polypharmacy in older adults. This approach ensures that the medications are appropriate, necessary, and not causing harm. A: Encouraging herbal supplements is not a recommended approach as they can interact with prescription medications. B: Prioritizing over-the-counter medications may not address the complexities of polypharmacy and can still contribute to drug interactions. D: Limiting patient discussions about medications can lead to misunderstandings and non-adherence.

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Primarily in the last 30 years. This is because advancements in research methodologies, technology, and increased awareness of aging population's health needs have led to a significant increase in research rigor and scope in the past few decades. Choice B is too broad and vague. Choice C is incorrect as research on older adults' health outcomes predates the establishment of Medicare. Choice D is too limited in scope, as research on older adults' health outcomes has been ongoing for more than just the last decade.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer B: "Channeling Your Inner Strength Toward Wellness" 1. Focuses on a positive approach to aging by emphasizing inner strength and wellness. 2. Aligns with the ALF's philosophy of viewing aging from a health perspective. 3. Encourages residents to take an active role in their well-being and empowers them. 4. Promotes a holistic view of health by addressing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: "The Many Chronic Illnesses of Aging" - Focuses on negative aspects and does not promote a proactive approach to health. C: "Maximizing Function As You Age" - While important, it may not fully capture the holistic nature of health and wellness. D: "Conserving Your Strength As You Age" - Does not emphasize active engagement in promoting wellness and may promote a passive approach.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Fewer than 50% of older adults utilize available preventive services. This is important for a community health initiative as it highlights a gap in healthcare utilization among seniors. By recognizing this statistic, the nurse can tailor the initiative to target the barriers preventing seniors from accessing preventive services. Rationale: 1. Option A is incorrect because stating that approximately 60% of older adults actively participate in preventive health services is misleading. The actual utilization rate is lower. 2. Option C is incorrect as it focuses on preference for alternative medicine rather than actual utilization of preventive health services. 3. Option D is incorrect as it states preventive health services are equally utilized by older and younger adults, which is not supported by data regarding senior healthcare utilization.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Regular review and adjustment of medications by healthcare providers. This approach is the best because it involves healthcare professionals regularly assessing the appropriateness of each medication, adjusting dosages, and eliminating unnecessary drugs to minimize potential adverse effects and drug interactions in older adults. This proactive management strategy ensures that the patient's medication regimen is optimized for their specific health needs, reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy. Choice A (Regular use of over-the-counter medications) is incorrect as it does not address the issue of polypharmacy and may actually contribute to it. Choice B (Reducing the number of medications based on patient preferences) is not the best approach as patient preferences alone may not always align with the most effective and safe medication regimen. Choice D (Relying solely on herbal supplements) is also incorrect as herbal supplements can interact with prescribed medications, leading to potential complications.