ATI RN
geriatric nursing practice questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which change in the skin is abnormal in an older person?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because a red, swollen 3-day-old wound in an older person indicates delayed wound healing, which is abnormal. The skin's ability to heal slows down with age due to decreased collagen production and compromised immune response. Thinner and more fragile skin (choice A) are typical changes in older individuals but not necessarily abnormal. Greater number of freckles (choice C) is a common age-related change due to accumulated sun exposure. Loss of hair on the extremities (choice D) can occur with aging but is not necessarily abnormal unless it is sudden and widespread.
Question 2 of 5
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 3 of 5
The nurse in an assisted living facility (ALF) is preparing a lecture on aging for the residents. The philosophy of the ALF is to approach aging from the viewpoint of health. Based on this philosophy, the nurse includes which of the following topics?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer B: "Channeling Your Inner Strength Toward Wellness" 1. Focuses on a positive approach to aging by emphasizing inner strength and wellness. 2. Aligns with the ALF's philosophy of viewing aging from a health perspective. 3. Encourages residents to take an active role in their well-being and empowers them. 4. Promotes a holistic view of health by addressing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: "The Many Chronic Illnesses of Aging" - Focuses on negative aspects and does not promote a proactive approach to health. C: "Maximizing Function As You Age" - While important, it may not fully capture the holistic nature of health and wellness. D: "Conserving Your Strength As You Age" - Does not emphasize active engagement in promoting wellness and may promote a passive approach.
Question 4 of 5
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 5 of 5
An older married couple move to a continuing care retirement community. The older woman who was always very social and outgoing quickly joins an exercise group, a book club, and a knitting circle. The older man who was always very solitary adopts a routine of a long daily walk and registers for an online course in creative writing. The behaviors of the older couple are consistent with which theory of aging?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Continuity theory. This theory suggests that as individuals age, they strive to maintain a sense of consistency in their activities, interests, and relationships. In this scenario, both the older woman and man are adapting their lifestyles to maintain a sense of continuity with their past selves. The woman continues to engage in social activities, reflecting her outgoing nature, while the man maintains his solitary habits but explores new interests, such as creative writing, to fulfill his need for personal growth. A: Activity theory focuses on the idea that continued engagement in activities leads to a higher quality of life in old age. While the older woman's active engagement aligns with this theory, the older man's solitary activities do not fully support this concept. C: Social exchange theory emphasizes the balance of costs and benefits in social relationships. This theory is not directly applicable to the scenario as it does not address the individuals' personal activities and interests. D: Disengagement theory suggests that older adults gradually withdraw