ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse is reviewing the care plan of an 89 yr old client who has been admitted for prostate surgery. The client is on medication for hypertension and had a recent fall at home prior to admission. The nurse would include which assessment in the care plan?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Checking postural blood pressures is essential to assess for orthostatic hypotension in an elderly client with a history of falls and hypertension medication. Orthostatic hypotension can lead to falls, so monitoring postural B/Ps is crucial. Checking B/P every 2 hours (choice A) is not necessary and could cause unnecessary discomfort to the client. Checking serum sodium levels (choice C) and serum creatinine levels (choice D) are not directly related to the client's risk factors for falls post-prostate surgery.
Question 2 of 9
Which intervention is most likely to improve the quality of life in older adults with arthritis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because regular physical activity and joint mobility exercises help improve joint flexibility, reduce pain, and increase strength. This intervention can enhance overall physical function and quality of life for older adults with arthritis. Complete bed rest (A) can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, worsening arthritis symptoms. Increased use of opioid painkillers (C) can have adverse side effects and may not address the root cause of arthritis. Strictly limiting daily activities (D) can lead to decreased mobility and functional decline in older adults.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse observes older women learning advanced knitting techniques. The nurse concludes that this learning activity is suitable for these women because it accomplishes which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because learning advanced knitting techniques adds to the existing knowledge base of older women. This activity stimulates cognitive functioning, enhances problem-solving skills, and fosters creativity. It also helps maintain mental acuity and memory. Choice A is incorrect because although knitting may involve hand movements, it primarily benefits cognitive functions. Choice B is incorrect as the primary focus is on individual learning rather than group cohesion. Choice C is incorrect as the main purpose of the activity is intellectual growth rather than social interaction.
Question 4 of 9
Which factor(s) are associated with the provision of culturally competent care? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A, B
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Cultural awareness is crucial for understanding one's own biases and recognizing cultural differences. 2. Cultural knowledge involves understanding diverse cultural practices, beliefs, and values. 3. Cultural skills refer to the ability to effectively communicate and adapt care to meet individual cultural needs. 4. Cultural connections, while important, do not directly relate to providing culturally competent care. In summary, A and B are correct as they form the foundation for providing culturally competent care, while C and D do not encompass all aspects necessary for culturally competent care.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following is a strong predictor of functional decline in older adults?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Depression. Depression is a strong predictor of functional decline in older adults because it can lead to decreased motivation, social withdrawal, and physical symptoms that affect daily activities. Depression is also associated with cognitive impairment, which can further impact functioning. Being physically active (A) and high socioeconomic status (B) are generally positive factors for maintaining function. Advanced age (C) alone is not a strong predictor of functional decline compared to depression.
Question 6 of 9
An older adult client with dementia is having difficulty with self-care. What intervention by the nurse would best assist the client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide step-by-step verbal cues to assist the client. This intervention is appropriate for an older adult with dementia as it offers structured support while still promoting independence. Verbal cues can help guide the client through the self-care tasks, maintaining their dignity and autonomy. Option A is incorrect as full independence may be overwhelming and unsafe. Option C is inappropriate and neglectful. Option D may be too demanding for someone with dementia. Verbal cues strike a balance between support and autonomy, making it the best intervention in this scenario.
Question 7 of 9
Which age-related change contributes to anorexia and weight loss in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fewer taste buds. As people age, they tend to have fewer taste buds, leading to a decreased ability to taste food. This can result in a loss of interest in eating, which may contribute to anorexia and weight loss. Excessive saliva (A) does not directly contribute to anorexia or weight loss. Wearing dentures (C) may affect chewing but is not a major factor in anorexia. Softened tooth enamel (D) is more related to dental health rather than appetite and weight loss.
Question 8 of 9
An older patient learns she has metastatic cancer and states: “I must have angered God.” This is an example of which type of belief?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Magicoreligious. This belief involves attributing illness to supernatural forces or divine punishment. In this scenario, the patient's statement implies a belief that her illness is a result of angering God, indicating a magical or religious explanation. Choice A (Biomedical) focuses on scientific and physical causes of illness, which is not reflected in the patient's statement. Choice C (Naturalistic) involves viewing illness as a part of the natural world, without supernatural elements. Choice D (Ayurvedic) is a traditional Indian system of medicine and does not relate to the patient's belief in supernatural punishment.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is reviewing the care plan of an 89 yr old client who has been admitted for prostate surgery. The client is on medication for hypertension and had a recent fall at home prior to admission. The nurse would include which assessment in the care plan?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Checking postural blood pressures is essential to assess for orthostatic hypotension in an elderly client with a history of falls and hypertension medication. Orthostatic hypotension can lead to falls, so monitoring postural B/Ps is crucial. Checking B/P every 2 hours (choice A) is not necessary and could cause unnecessary discomfort to the client. Checking serum sodium levels (choice C) and serum creatinine levels (choice D) are not directly related to the client's risk factors for falls post-prostate surgery.