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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Standards of gerontological nursing practice, as the ANA Scope and Standards of Gerontological Nursing (2010) specifically outlines the accepted standards and guidelines for gerontological nursing practice. This document does not focus on skills and knowledge (Choice A), levels of practice (Choice B), or certification requirements (Choice C), but rather on setting the standards and expectations for gerontological nursing care. It is essential for nurses to adhere to these standards to provide high-quality care to older adults.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it highlights a common issue in nursing education where gerontological nursing content is often underrepresented, with less than 25% of the curriculum dedicated to geriatric care. This is accurate as many nursing programs prioritize other areas over gerontology. A is incorrect as gerontological nursing integration has historically been lacking in nursing curricula. B is incorrect because undergraduate programs often lack extensive coverage of gerontological nursing compared to other specialties like psychiatric nursing. D is incorrect as accreditation does not guarantee specific proportions of gerontological nursing content in the curriculum. Thus, choice C is the most accurate statement regarding gerontological nursing education.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitoring for electrolyte imbalances and adjusting medications accordingly. In advanced CKD, electrolyte imbalances can worsen kidney function and lead to complications. Monitoring electrolytes like potassium and adjusting medications such as diuretics is crucial. A: Initiating early dialysis is not always necessary and should be based on individual patient factors. B: Avoiding all medications is not feasible as some medications are essential and can be adjusted based on kidney function. D: Limiting fluid intake to less than 500 mL per day is too restrictive and can lead to dehydration.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because regularly reviewing and adjusting medications can help minimize adverse effects of polypharmacy in older adults. This approach ensures that the medications are appropriate, necessary, and not causing harm. A: Encouraging herbal supplements is not a recommended approach as they can interact with prescription medications. B: Prioritizing over-the-counter medications may not address the complexities of polypharmacy and can still contribute to drug interactions. D: Limiting patient discussions about medications can lead to misunderstandings and non-adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because older adults are indeed the fastest growing population using computers and the Internet due to increasing digital literacy and accessibility. Choice B is incorrect as research shows older adults are increasingly using social networking sites. Choice C is incorrect as many older adults do perceive the Internet as a valuable resource. Choice D is also incorrect as older adults are utilizing the Internet to connect with their healthcare providers more frequently.