The nurse is admitting a patient to a long-term care facility. During the admission, the patient verbalizes a concern about getting dementia now that he is in a nursing home. In which activities should the nurse encourage the patient to participate to maintain brain health?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Physical exercise. Engaging in physical exercise has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, promote the growth of new brain cells, and enhance cognitive function. This helps maintain brain health and may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Other choices are not as directly related to brain health. B: Stimulating mental activity is important but not as effective as physical exercise in preventing dementia. C: Socialization is beneficial for overall well-being but does not have a direct impact on brain health. D: Crossword puzzles are a form of mental stimulation, but physical exercise has a greater impact on brain health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: peripheral arterial disease. Altered level of consciousness in an 81-year-old female is unlikely to be directly caused by peripheral arterial disease. Instead, hypoglycemia, pneumonia, and hypotension from dehydration are common causes of altered mental status in the elderly. Hypoglycemia can lead to brain dysfunction, pneumonia can cause low oxygen levels affecting brain function, and dehydration-induced hypotension can reduce blood flow to the brain. Therefore, peripheral arterial disease is not typically a direct cause of altered consciousness in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because regular repositioning every 2 hours, along with the use of pressure-relieving devices, is the most effective intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in older adults with limited mobility. Repositioning helps to redistribute pressure, reducing the risk of tissue damage. Pressure-relieving devices like cushions or mattresses further help to alleviate pressure points. Choice A is incorrect because strict bed rest and minimal repositioning can actually increase the risk of pressure ulcers by concentrating pressure on specific areas. Choice B is incorrect as high-protein diets and supplements alone do not address the primary cause of pressure ulcers, which is prolonged pressure on the skin. Choice D is incorrect because leaving wounds uncovered can increase the risk of infection and hinder the healing process.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are a common cause of delirium in hospitalized older adults due to their impact on the central nervous system. UTIs can lead to systemic inflammation and affect cognitive function, resulting in delirium. Other choices like medication side effects, sleep deprivation, and electrolyte imbalances can contribute to delirium but are not as common or direct as UTIs in this population.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Help each person with individual activities. This intervention aligns with promoting gerotranscendence, as it focuses on supporting older adults in engaging in personal growth and reflection. By assisting individuals with meaningful activities tailored to their preferences and abilities, the nurse encourages self-discovery and personal fulfillment. A: Giving a daily tea party for the group may foster social interaction but does not necessarily address individual growth or self-reflection. B: Calling each family to encourage visiting may help reduce isolation but does not directly promote gerotranscendence. C: Assisting them to resume midlife patterns may not be suitable as older adults may benefit more from exploring new activities and perspectives in their later years.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because gerontological nursing focuses on promoting health and maximizing independence in older adults. This statement aligns with the core principles of gerontological nursing, which emphasize holistic care and quality of life for elderly individuals. Choice A is incorrect because nurses have been involved in caring for older adults for a long time. Choice B is incorrect because gerontological care was not the second specialty certified by the ANA. Choice D is incorrect because ANA certification is not limited only to research positions in gerontological nursing.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most effective approach to improve quality of life in older adults with Alzheimer's disease is non-pharmacological interventions like music therapy and structured routines. This is because these interventions have been shown to reduce behavioral symptoms, enhance cognitive function, and promote overall well-being without the potential side effects of pharmacological treatments. Music therapy can help calm and stimulate memory recall, while structured routines provide predictability and familiarity, reducing confusion and agitation. Pharmacological management of behavioral symptoms alone may not address the root causes of the behaviors and can lead to adverse effects. Physical immobilization is harmful and can worsen cognitive decline. Sedatives can have detrimental effects on cognition and may increase the risk of falls and other complications. Therefore, non-pharmacological interventions are the most effective and holistic approach to enhancing the quality of life for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.

Correct Answer:

Rationale: Correct Answer: Regular physical activity and healthy diet Rationale: 1. Regular physical activity helps maintain cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and balance in older adults, reducing the risk of falls and chronic diseases. 2. A healthy diet provides essential nutrients for overall health and helps prevent conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 3. Both components are key in primary prevention by promoting overall well-being, reducing the risk of age-related health issues, and enhancing quality of life. Incorrect Choices: A: Annual health screenings - While important for early detection, screenings alone do not prevent health issues. B: Social isolation prevention programs - Important for mental health, but not primary prevention. C: Routine medication management - Important for managing existing conditions, not primary prevention. D: Memory enhancement exercises - Beneficial for cognitive health but not primary prevention for physical health issues in older adults.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because loss of vision in one eye is not a typical sign or symptom of Parkinson's disease. A, B, and D are all common signs of Parkinson's disease. A - Mask-like facial expressions result from decreased facial muscle movement. B - Shuffling gait is a characteristic walking pattern in Parkinson's patients. D - Tremors without intention (at rest) are a classic symptom of Parkinson's disease due to disrupted brain signals. Therefore, C is the odd one out as it is not directly associated with Parkinson's disease manifestations.