What is a major risk factor for pressure ulcers in older adults?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Malnutrition and dehydration. Malnutrition and dehydration are major risk factors for pressure ulcers in older adults because they can lead to poor skin integrity, reduced tissue resilience, and impaired wound healing. Lack of sleep (choice A) may contribute to overall health issues but is not a direct risk factor for pressure ulcers. Excessive physical activity (choice C) can increase the risk of injury but does not directly cause pressure ulcers. High blood pressure (choice D) is a risk factor for cardiovascular issues but is not specifically linked to the development of pressure ulcers.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is often mistaken for normal aging because it involves subtle changes in memory and thinking abilities that are beyond what is expected for age but not severe enough to be classified as dementia. Individuals with MCI may experience forgetfulness or difficulty with complex tasks, which can be misconstrued as typical age-related changes. Alzheimer's disease (B), dementia with Lewy bodies (C), and vascular dementia (D) are all forms of dementia characterized by more significant cognitive decline and functional impairment compared to MCI, making them less likely to be confused with normal aging.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because older adults have reduced kidney function, which impairs their ability to concentrate urine and retain water. Additionally, they may have a diminished thirst sensation, making them less likely to drink enough fluids. This combination of factors makes older adults more vulnerable to dehydration compared to younger adults. Choice A is incorrect because older adults actually have a lower percentage of body water due to age-related changes in body composition. Choice C is incorrect as dehydration can indeed have a more significant impact on older adults due to their physiological changes. Choice D is incorrect as older adults are actually more prone to dehydration due to various age-related factors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pneumonia. Older adults are more susceptible to pneumonia due to weakened immune systems and other health conditions. Pneumonia can lead to severe complications requiring hospitalization. Stroke (B) affects a significant number of older adults but is not the leading cause of hospitalization. Diabetes (C) and Congestive heart failure (D) are prevalent in older adults but are not the primary reason for hospitalization. Pneumonia's severity and impact on older adults' health make it the leading cause of hospitalization.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, increasing the risk of falls in older adults. They can also impair balance and coordination. Older adults are more sensitive to these effects due to age-related changes in metabolism and increased risk of cognitive impairment. Beta-blockers (A), statins (C), and antihypertensives (D) are generally safe in older adults and do not directly increase the risk of falls. Beta-blockers can sometimes cause dizziness but are more commonly associated with bradycardia. Statins are used to lower cholesterol levels and do not affect fall risk. Antihypertensives help lower blood pressure and can actually reduce the risk of falls by preventing conditions like orthostatic hypotension.