ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which gerontological nursing organization welcomes nurses from all educational backgrounds?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The National Gerontological Nursing Association (NGNA). NGNA welcomes nurses from all educational backgrounds, focusing on gerontological nursing practice. The other choices have specific focuses: B is for nurse practitioners, C is for directors of nursing administration, and D is for professionals in the field of aging. NGNA's inclusivity makes it the correct choice for nurses from all educational backgrounds interested in gerontological nursing.
Question 2 of 9
Aging ordinarily leads to decreases in which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Serum triiodothyronine (T3) and gastric pepsin. Aging typically leads to a decrease in serum T3 levels due to reduced thyroid function. Gastric pepsin production also decreases with age, impacting digestion. A: Creatinine clearance and insulin secretion typically decrease with kidney and pancreatic function decline, not necessarily solely due to aging. B: Blood CO2 levels and saliva production are not directly affected by aging but can be influenced by various health conditions. C: Left ventricle-wall thickness may increase with age due to conditions like hypertension, and skin healing time can be affected by various factors other than just aging. In summary, the correct answer stands out as age-related declines in serum T3 and gastric pepsin levels are more directly linked to the aging process compared to the other choices.
Question 3 of 9
When caring for an older adult with advanced heart failure, which intervention is most likely to improve the patient's quality of life?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing palliative care focused on symptom management and comfort. This is the most appropriate intervention for an older adult with advanced heart failure as it prioritizes quality of life by focusing on alleviating symptoms and ensuring comfort. High-dose diuretics (choice A) may lead to electrolyte imbalances and worsen the patient's condition. Initiating aggressive cardiac surgery (choice C) may be too risky and invasive for an older adult with advanced heart failure. Enforcing strict bed rest (choice D) can lead to deconditioning and muscle wasting, further compromising the patient's quality of life.
Question 4 of 9
A significant factor contributing to the prevalence of chronic conditions among baby boomers is that:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because baby boomers were exposed to unhealthy lifestyle choices and environments in their formative years, contributing to the prevalence of chronic conditions. This is supported by research showing that environmental factors, such as diet and exposure to toxins, play a significant role in the development of chronic illnesses. Additionally, unhealthy habits established in youth can have long-term effects on health. Choice A is incorrect because higher physical activity rates during youth would typically lead to better health outcomes, not increased chronic conditions. Choice C is incorrect as better access to preventive healthcare services would likely reduce chronic conditions, not increase them. Choice D is incorrect because education about nutrition and wellness would typically lead to healthier lifestyle choices and lower rates of chronic conditions.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following is the most important consideration when providing care to older adults with multiple chronic conditions?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Coordinating care among healthcare providers. This is the most important consideration for providing care to older adults with multiple chronic conditions because it ensures that all aspects of their health are managed comprehensively and efficiently. Coordinating care among healthcare providers helps prevent medication interactions, duplicate tests, and conflicting treatment plans. It also promotes better communication and collaboration among the healthcare team, leading to improved outcomes for the patient. A: Treating each condition independently is not ideal as it may result in conflicting treatment plans and overlook the holistic nature of managing multiple chronic conditions. B: Using a single medication for all conditions is not appropriate as different conditions may require specific medications tailored to each individual's needs. D: Limiting social interactions to reduce stress is not directly related to managing multiple chronic conditions and may have negative effects on the overall well-being of the older adults.
Question 6 of 9
The home health nurse is visiting a client for the first time. While assessing the client's medication, it is noted that there are 19 prescription and several over-the-counter medications that the client is taking. What intervention should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Determine whether there are medication duplications. This is the first intervention the nurse should take because medication duplications can lead to potential drug interactions and adverse effects. By identifying duplicate medications, the nurse can prevent harm to the client. Choice B: Starting to educate the client on proper medication adherence may be important, but it is not the first priority in this scenario. Choice C: Monitoring the client's blood pressure closely is not directly related to the issue of multiple medications and should not be the first intervention. Choice D: Asking the client to stop taking some medications without proper assessment and consultation with a healthcare provider can be risky and may not address the issue of medication duplications.
Question 7 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 8 of 9
Which of the following is a significant risk factor for developing osteoporosis in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Low calcium intake. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Calcium is essential for bone health, and a low intake can lead to decreased bone density and increased risk of osteoporosis. Physical activity, while beneficial for overall health, is not a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. High alcohol consumption can contribute to bone loss but is not as significant as low calcium intake. Genetics play a role in predisposing individuals to osteoporosis, but it is not a modifiable risk factor like low calcium intake. Thus, B is the correct answer.
Question 9 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.