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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Genetic research. Telomere shortening is primarily based on the theory of cellular senescence, which is related to genetic research. Telomeres are protective caps at the end of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Genetic research has shown that telomere shortening is associated with aging and age-related diseases. Caloric restriction, oxidative stress, and cross-link theories of aging are not directly linked to telomere shortening. Caloric restriction focuses on extending lifespan by reducing calorie intake, oxidative stress theory suggests that aging is caused by cumulative damage from reactive oxygen species, and cross-link theory emphasizes the accumulation of non-reversible bonds between molecules as a cause of aging.

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.

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.

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.