The ANA Scope and Standards of Gerontological Nursing (2010) addresses which of the following?

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: 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: 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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The patient's advanced directives and wishes. This is crucial in end-of-life care as it ensures that the patient's preferences and values are respected. By evaluating the advanced directives and wishes, the nurse can provide care that aligns with the patient's goals and desires. This promotes autonomy and dignity in the patient's end-of-life experience. Choice A (Patient's financial situation) is not as crucial as the patient's wishes in end-of-life care, as financial considerations should not dictate the quality of care provided. Choice B (The family’s expectations) is important, but the patient's wishes should take precedence as it is their care and preferences that should be the primary focus. Choice D (The patient's history of medication use) is relevant for overall care but not as crucial in end-of-life care as honoring the patient's wishes and directives.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Installing safety bars and removing tripping hazards. This strategy addresses environmental factors that contribute to falls in older adults. Safety bars provide support, while removing tripping hazards reduces the risk of accidents. Restricting mobility (choice A) can lead to muscle weakness and increase fall risk. Increasing medication dosages (choice C) can cause side effects like dizziness, increasing fall risk. Providing frequent sedation (choice D) can impair alertness and balance, also increasing fall risk. Thus, choice B is the most effective strategy to reduce falls by modifying the physical environment.