ATI RN
basic geriatric nursing test bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
Identify the correct statement describing the abuse of elderly persons in the United States.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Statistically, neglect is the most common form of elder abuse. Neglect involves the failure to provide necessary care or assistance to an elderly person, making it a prevalent form of elder abuse. This is supported by research and studies on elder abuse cases. A is incorrect because elder abuse is often underreported compared to other forms of domestic violence. C is incorrect as many cases of elder abuse go unreported due to various reasons such as fear, shame, or lack of awareness. D is incorrect as healthcare practitioners are mandated to report any suspected cases of elder abuse, not just verified cases, to protect the well-being of the elderly.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse provides opportunities for nursing home residents to read aloud to others. Which cognitive skill is this nursing intervention most likely to improve?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Verbal fluency is the correct answer because reading aloud improves language skills, vocabulary, and verbal expression. It requires cognitive processes like word retrieval, organization, and articulation. Logical analysis (B) is not directly related to reading aloud. Object naming (C) focuses on identifying objects visually, not verbally. Visuospatial skills (D) involve understanding and manipulating visual information, not verbal expression. Reading aloud specifically targets verbal fluency by enhancing communication abilities and language processing.
Question 3 of 9
How does sarcopenia impact functional independence in older adults?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because sarcopenia, which is the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, directly impacts balance and mobility in older adults. Muscle weakness from sarcopenia reduces stability and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. This affects functional independence as it limits the ability to perform daily activities safely. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as sarcopenia primarily affects muscle mass and strength, not body fat, lung capacity, or joint stiffness.
Question 4 of 9
Which of the following is an indicator of dementia rather than normal aging?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because memory loss affecting daily functioning is a key indicator of dementia, not normal aging. Normal aging may involve some forgetfulness, but it typically does not significantly impact daily activities. Choice A is incorrect because difficulty recalling recent events can occur in both normal aging and dementia. Choice B is incorrect as increased forgetfulness is a common feature of aging and may not necessarily indicate dementia. Choice C is incorrect as forgetting names of familiar people can also be a normal part of aging and does not solely point to dementia. Memory loss affecting daily functioning is a more specific and severe symptom that strongly suggests dementia over normal aging.
Question 5 of 9
Decreased functioning of which physical structure is likely to result in decreased metabolism in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism. In older adults, decreased thyroid function, known as hypothyroidism, can lead to a decrease in metabolism. This can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and slowed heart rate. A: Kidney - While the kidneys play a role in filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance, decreased kidney function typically does not directly impact metabolism. C: Brain - The brain plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, but it does not directly control metabolism. D: Skeleton - The skeleton provides structural support and protects organs but does not directly influence metabolism.
Question 6 of 9
An older adult who lives in an assisted living facility tells a nurse that she is engaged in life review. The nurse understands which of the following about life review?
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.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse is assessing an older adult from a different culture using the explanatory model. Which question(s) should the nurse ask? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B, E, F
Rationale: The correct answers are B, E, and F. B is correct because understanding what treatment can improve the condition is essential for culturally sensitive care. E is correct as it helps understand the patient's beliefs about the cause of the illness. F is correct to assess the impact of the illness on the patient's life. A is incorrect as it focuses more on negotiation rather than understanding the patient's perspective. C is incorrect as it assumes the nurse's plan is superior without considering the patient's beliefs. D is incorrect as it only focuses on the duration of the problem rather than the patient's explanatory model.
Question 8 of 9
Which action should the nurse take when addressing older adults?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Speak clearly. This is important when addressing older adults as many may have hearing impairments. Speaking clearly helps ensure they can understand and follow instructions. Using an exaggerated pitch (A) may come across as patronizing. Using a lower quality of speech (B) can be perceived as disrespectful. Using endearing terms (C) may not be appropriate for all individuals and can be seen as condescending. In summary, speaking clearly is the most effective way to communicate respectfully with older adults.
Question 9 of 9
While testing the vision of an elderly client, the nurse finds that the client has decreased ability to accommodate (presbyopia). Which clinical implication would the nurse recognize?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Difficulty reading small print and decreased ability to focus on objects at varying distances. As people age, the lens of the eye becomes less flexible, leading to presbyopia, which results in difficulty seeing close objects clearly. This explains the client's decreased ability to accommodate. This choice is correct because presbyopia specifically affects near vision, making it harder to read small print and focus on objects up close. A: Blurring of vision due to increased intraocular pressure - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia is not related to increased intraocular pressure. C: Narrowing of field of vision-loss of peripheral vision - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia does not affect peripheral vision; it specifically impacts near vision. D: Sensitivity to light (photophobia) - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia does not cause sensitivity to light; it is solely related to difficulty in focusing on near objects.