The nurse is performing an assessment on an older adult client. What assessment data would indicate a potential complication associated with the skin of this client?

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basic geriatric nursing test bank Questions

Question 1 of 9

The nurse is performing an assessment on an older adult client. What assessment data would indicate a potential complication associated with the skin of this client?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Crusting. In older adults, crusting on the skin can indicate a potential complication such as infection, dermatitis, or impaired wound healing. Crusting may result from dryness, scratching, or poor circulation. It is essential for the nurse to assess and address the underlying cause promptly to prevent further complications. B: Wrinkling is a normal part of aging and not necessarily indicative of a complication unless it is severe and associated with other symptoms. C: Thinning/loss of elasticity of skin is a common age-related change and may not always indicate a complication unless it is excessive. D: Crusting is a duplicate answer.

Question 2 of 9

An older patient who was just diagnosed with a terminal disease states, "All my life I attended church, but I am still worried about what will happen after death." The nurse's best response is which of the following?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "The unknown may be frightening. Do you want to talk about this?" This response acknowledges the patient's fear and offers an opportunity for the patient to express their concerns. It shows empathy and encourages open communication. Choice B is incorrect because it assumes all religious people share the same belief, which may not be the case for this patient. Choice C is incorrect as it imposes experiences of others onto the patient, which may not align with their beliefs or feelings. Choice D is incorrect as it assumes the patient's feelings without giving them a chance to express themselves.

Question 3 of 9

A case manager is likely to have how many years of nursing education?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 2 years. A case manager typically requires a minimum of 2 years of nursing education to effectively coordinate care for patients. This level of education provides the necessary knowledge and skills to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care. - A: 1 to 1.5 years - Insufficient to acquire the depth of knowledge needed for case management. - B: 4 to 6 years - Excessive for the role of a case manager, as it typically does not require a bachelor's degree. - D: 8 or more years - Overqualified for the position of a case manager, as this level of education is beyond what is necessary for the role.

Question 4 of 9

Which of the following assessment findings would be most suggestive of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because swelling in one leg with pitting edema is a classic sign of DVT. Pitting edema suggests fluid accumulation due to compromised venous circulation, which is common in DVT. Bilateral calf tenderness (choice A) is more indicative of muscle strain. Shortness of breath (choice C) is suggestive of a pulmonary embolism, a complication of DVT. Two plus palpable pulses (choice D) indicate good arterial circulation, not DVT.

Question 5 of 9

Which type of exercise is most beneficial for older adults to prevent falls and maintain balance?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Yoga and tai chi. These exercises focus on balance, flexibility, and strength, which are crucial for preventing falls in older adults. Yoga and tai chi also promote mindfulness and body awareness, further enhancing balance and coordination. Swimming (choice A) is beneficial for overall fitness but may not specifically target balance and fall prevention. Weight training (choice B) is important for muscle strength but may not address balance and flexibility adequately. Running (choice D) is high-impact and may actually increase the risk of falls for older adults.

Question 6 of 9

Which of the following statements describing dental care for the elderly population is incorrect?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because losing one's teeth is not a normal part of the aging process. Teeth loss is primarily due to poor oral hygiene, dental diseases, and other factors, not solely aging. Step 1: Aging itself does not directly cause tooth loss. Step 2: Proper oral care and regular dental checkups can prevent tooth loss. Step 3: Edentulous clients still need dental checkups for oral health. Step 4: Regular dental exams can prevent tooth loss and improve chewing ability. Step 5: The incidence of oral malignancies does increase with age, emphasizing the importance of regular oral exams. Incorrect answers: B: Clients who are edentulous need dental checkups for oral health. C: Regular exams can prevent tooth loss and improve chewing ability. D: Oral malignancies increase with age, highlighting the importance of regular oral exams. Overall, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are crucial for elderly individuals' oral health, preventing tooth

Question 7 of 9

Which condition is often misdiagnosed as depression in older adults?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dementia. Older adults often experience cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes that can be mistaken for symptoms of depression. Dementia is a common condition in the elderly that can be misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms such as apathy, social withdrawal, and changes in sleep patterns. Chronic fatigue syndrome (A), anemia (C), and sleep apnea (D) may also present with symptoms of fatigue and sleep disturbances, but they are less likely to be confused with depression in older adults compared to dementia.

Question 8 of 9

The nurse is performing a basic assessment on an older client. Which of the following is a common age-related change?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Aging causes decreased collagen production, leading to decreased skin elasticity and thinning. 2. Loss of subcutaneous fat contributes to the appearance of aging skin. 3. Wrinkles and sagging are common signs of decreased skin elasticity in older adults. 4. Increased muscle mass, increased cardiac output, and increased renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes. Summary: Skin changes such as decreased elasticity and thinning are common in older adults due to reduced collagen production and loss of subcutaneous fat. Increased muscle mass, cardiac output, and renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes.

Question 9 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.

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