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.

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.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it states that the exact cause of super-centenarians' longevity and good health is not known. This acknowledges the uncertainty and complexity of the situation, highlighting the need for further research and understanding. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: Genetic makeup alone may not fully explain super-centenarians' survival, as there are likely additional factors involved. B: Living in wealthier areas does not guarantee longevity or good health, as there are many other factors at play. D: While quality medical care and improved social conditions can contribute to health, they are not the sole reasons for super-centenarians' exceptional longevity.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Role theory. Role theory suggests that individuals continue to seek fulfilling roles and activities in older age to maintain a sense of purpose and identity. In this scenario, the older woman's transition from a career as a school principal to volunteering at the library aligns with the idea of seeking meaningful roles. B: Disengagement theory posits that older adults withdraw from society as they age, which contradicts the woman's active engagement in volunteering. C: Age-stratification theory focuses on how age influences opportunities and constraints within society, not on individual choices like volunteering. D: Social exchange theory emphasizes reciprocal relationships and benefits gained from social interactions, which is not the primary focus in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Identifying goals of care through open conversations with the patient and family. This is crucial because palliative care for older adults should be person-centered and align with their preferences and values. By engaging in open conversations, healthcare providers can understand the individual's goals, values, and wishes, allowing for care to be tailored accordingly. This approach emphasizes holistic care beyond just managing pain and considers the patient's emotional, spiritual, and social needs. Incorrect choices: A: Focusing primarily on managing pain with medications overlooks the importance of addressing other aspects of care. C: Avoiding advanced medical treatments is not always appropriate as each situation should be assessed individually. D: Prescribing hospice care immediately may not be necessary or desired by the patient, as it depends on their specific needs and preferences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Difficulty standing up from a seated position. This is a key indicator of potential sarcopenia because sarcopenia is characterized by age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. Difficulty standing up from a seated position can be attributed to muscle weakness, which is a common symptom of sarcopenia. Unintentional weight loss (A) can be a sign of various health issues, not specific to sarcopenia. Loss of appetite (C) can also be caused by a range of factors, not exclusive to sarcopenia. Increased body fat percentage (D) is not a direct indicator of sarcopenia, as the condition primarily involves muscle loss rather than increased body fat.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Intermittent claudication, defined as pain in the lower extremities with walking that improves with rest, is a classic symptom of moderate to severe PAD. This occurs due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise. Other choices are incorrect: A is typically associated with syncope or fainting; B is more indicative of cardiovascular or pulmonary issues; and C is more commonly seen in mesenteric ischemia.