ATI RN
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
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 3 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.
Question 4 of 9
In the care of older adults, how does the concept of "multimorbidity" complicate the treatment of chronic conditions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because multimorbidity refers to the presence of multiple chronic conditions in an individual, which can complicate treatment due to interactions between medications, conflicting treatment recommendations, and the need for coordination among different healthcare providers. Managing multiple health conditions and medications can lead to potential adverse effects, drug interactions, and difficulties in prioritizing treatment goals. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because multimorbidity actually increases treatment complexity, necessitating individualized care plans and careful consideration of potential interactions between treatments.
Question 5 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 6 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 7 of 9
What is the primary reason older adults with cognitive impairments experience difficulties with medication adherence?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cognitive decline affecting memory and decision-making. Older adults with cognitive impairments, such as dementia, may struggle with remembering to take their medications as prescribed and making sound decisions regarding their medication regimen due to cognitive decline. Memory deficits can lead to missed doses, while impaired decision-making can result in improper adherence. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary reason for medication non-adherence in this population is the cognitive decline impacting memory and decision-making, rather than lack of understanding, physical inability, or fear of side effects.
Question 8 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 9 of 9
What is the primary goal of the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To offer holistic care that allows older adults to live in the community. PACE aims to provide comprehensive and coordinated care to help seniors remain independent in their homes and communities. This includes medical, social, and behavioral services. Choice A is incorrect as PACE focuses on holistic care rather than just intensive medical treatment. Choice B is incorrect as PACE aims to prevent nursing home placement by supporting older adults to live at home. Choice D is incorrect as while PACE may help reduce healthcare costs through preventive and coordinated care, the primary goal is to support seniors in living in the community.