ATI RN
geriatric nursing practice questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
What is the primary reason older adults are at higher risk for adverse reactions to anesthesia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Age-related changes in liver function. As people age, there are changes in liver metabolism and blood flow, affecting the processing of anesthetic agents. Liver function declines with age, leading to slower drug metabolism and clearance, increasing the risk of adverse reactions. Decreased muscle mass (A) may affect drug distribution but not metabolism. Decreased renal function (B) can impact drug excretion but is not the primary reason for adverse reactions. Increased body fat (C) can alter drug distribution but is not the main factor in anesthesia reactions for older adults.
Question 2 of 9
How does age-related physiological change affect pharmacokinetics in older adults?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because as individuals age, there is a decrease in renal function leading to reduced renal clearance of drugs. This results in a longer drug half-life and potentially increased drug accumulation in the body. Choice B is incorrect as aging often leads to a decrease in hepatic metabolism, not faster metabolism. Choice C is incorrect because aging can actually lead to reduced gastrointestinal absorption due to changes in the gastrointestinal tract. Choice D is incorrect as aging can result in decreased circulation, which may affect drug distribution negatively.
Question 3 of 9
What is the most effective strategy for preventing falls in older adults?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, regular exercise to improve strength and balance. This is the most effective strategy for preventing falls in older adults because it helps increase muscle strength, improve balance, and enhance coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Exercise also improves overall mobility and flexibility, which are essential for preventing falls. Installing bed alarms (A) may alert staff after a fall but does not prevent falls. Using medications to sedate the patient (B) can increase the risk of falls due to dizziness and impaired balance. Restricting movement (D) can lead to muscle weakness and loss of balance, increasing the risk of falls.
Question 4 of 9
Which of the following is the most important factor in managing malnutrition in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increasing protein intake. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength in older adults, aiding in the prevention and management of malnutrition. Protein also supports immune function and wound healing. Reducing calorie intake (A) can exacerbate malnutrition, as older adults need adequate nutrition. Avoiding all fats (C) is not recommended as healthy fats are essential for brain health and nutrient absorption. Limiting hydration (D) can lead to dehydration and worsen malnutrition. In summary, increasing protein intake is the most important factor in managing malnutrition in older adults due to its vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing muscle loss.
Question 5 of 9
An older man asks, “How do you define aging? Do I meet the criteria of a senior citizen?” The nurse defines aging as “social aging” based on which aspect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because social aging refers to changes in a person's roles and relationships as they age. Retiring from a job is a significant social change that typically accompanies aging. This indicates a shift in the man's social status and activities, which aligns with the concept of social aging. B, C, and D are incorrect because taking multiple medications, using a walker, and celebrating a 65th birthday are not direct indicators of social aging. While these factors may be related to aging, they do not specifically address the social aspects of aging, which is the focus of the question.
Question 6 of 9
The visiting nurse observes that the older male client is confined by his daughter to his room. When the nurse suggests that he walk into the den and join everyone, he says "I'm in everyone's way, my daughter needs me to stay here." The most important action for the nurse is to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because suggesting appropriate resources like respite care and a senior citizens' center shows the nurse's understanding of the client's needs for social interaction and support. This approach addresses the client's isolation and the daughter's need for assistance in caring for her father. Choice B is incorrect because simply telling the daughter to allow her father to participate does not address the underlying issues of the client feeling in the way and the daughter's need for support. Choice C is incorrect as it ignores the client's need for social interaction and the daughter's need for assistance, prioritizing peace over the client's well-being. Choice D is incorrect as offering to stay with the client while he is isolated does not address the broader issue of the client's need for social engagement and the daughter's need for support.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse at a nursing home wants to help decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the residents. Which should the nurse do to implement this goal?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because assisting residents with ambulation to meals promotes physical activity, which is known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, reduces inflammation, and promotes the growth of new brain cells. Keeping curtains open (choice A) may offer natural light but does not directly reduce the risk of AD. Offering beads for stringing (choice B) and showing movies (choice C) may provide cognitive stimulation but do not address the physical activity needed to decrease the risk of AD.
Question 8 of 9
What is the primary reason older adults are at higher risk for adverse reactions to anesthesia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Age-related changes in liver function. As people age, there are changes in liver metabolism and blood flow, affecting the processing of anesthetic agents. Liver function declines with age, leading to slower drug metabolism and clearance, increasing the risk of adverse reactions. Decreased muscle mass (A) may affect drug distribution but not metabolism. Decreased renal function (B) can impact drug excretion but is not the primary reason for adverse reactions. Increased body fat (C) can alter drug distribution but is not the main factor in anesthesia reactions for older adults.
Question 9 of 9
How does aging affect the immune response in older adults, making them more susceptible to infections?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: The thymus gland is responsible for producing T-cells, crucial for immune responses. As individuals age, the thymus gland shrinks and becomes less efficient, reducing the production of new T-cells. This decline in T-cell production weakens the immune response in older adults, making them more susceptible to infections. Therefore, choice B is correct. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Aging does not increase the production of white blood cells. In fact, the immune system may weaken with age due to a decline in key immune cells. C: Aging does not improve the body's ability to recognize and fight off pathogens. Instead, it often leads to a decline in immune function. D: While some inflammatory responses may increase with age, excessive inflammation can actually be harmful and contribute to age-related diseases, rather than providing protection.