ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 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 2 of 9
Which of the following statements is true regarding life expectancy in the United States?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because life expectancy is influenced by multiple factors such as gender, ethnicity, and living environment. Gender does play a role, but it is not the sole determinant. Ethnicity and living environment also significantly impact life expectancy. Genetic factors may contribute, but they are not the primary factor affecting life expectancy. Therefore, choice C is the most comprehensive and accurate statement. Choices A and B are incorrect as they oversimplify the factors that influence life expectancy, while choice D is also incorrect as it overlooks the significant impact of other factors beyond genetics.
Question 3 of 9
Which of the following best describes the role of a gerontological nurse practitioner?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because a gerontological nurse practitioner is trained to manage chronic conditions and promote health in older adults through preventive care, education, and treatment. This role involves a holistic approach to addressing the physical, mental, and social aspects of aging. Choice A is incorrect as palliative care is just one aspect of their role. Choice C is incorrect as they work in various settings, not just nursing homes. Choice D is incorrect as they work with a range of older adult patients, not just those with psychiatric conditions.
Question 4 of 9
Mr. Abramson has been diagnosed with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) by his primary care provider. The most likely symptoms that prompted him to initially seek health care is___
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nocturia. Nocturia, or waking up at night to urinate, is a common symptom of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) due to the enlarged prostate pressing on the urethra, causing urinary frequency and urgency. Other symptoms like weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, incomplete emptying, and dribbling may also be present. Recurrent urinary tract infections (B) are less likely to be the initial symptom of BPH, as they are more commonly associated with urinary retention or obstruction. Functional incontinence (C) is not a typical symptom of BPH, as it is more related to mobility or cognitive issues. Hematuria (D) is not a common presenting symptom of BPH, as it is more indicative of other conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
Question 5 of 9
The following statement is not true.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it provides inaccurate information. Osteoarthritis commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, not the hands, elbows, and shoulders as stated. The other choices are incorrect due to the following reasons: A: Correct - describes osteoarthritis B: Incorrect - describes rheumatoid arthritis D: Incorrect - describes risk factors for osteoarthritis, not rheumatoid arthritis.
Question 6 of 9
An older woman retires after a long career as an elementary school principal and begins to volunteer in the local library reading to children. The older woman is very pleased with her volunteer activities. This is consistent with which theory of aging?
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.
Question 7 of 9
Postural hypotension may be caused by all of the following except______
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Postural hypotension is a drop in blood pressure when standing up. Increased cholesterol levels do not directly affect blood pressure regulation or lead to postural hypotension. Medications, decreased baroreceptor sensitivity, and arterial stiffness can all contribute to postural hypotension by affecting blood pressure regulation mechanisms. Therefore, choice B, increased cholesterol level, is the correct answer as it does not directly cause postural hypotension.
Question 8 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 9 of 9
How does the gerontological nurse assess frailty in older adults?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because measuring gait speed, grip strength, and weight loss are key components of assessing frailty in older adults. Gait speed reflects physical function, grip strength indicates muscle weakness, and unintentional weight loss signifies nutritional deficits, all of which are common indicators of frailty. Evaluating cognitive decline and social isolation (choice A) is important but not specific to frailty assessment. Presence of depression and anxiety (choice C) may contribute to frailty but do not directly assess it. Monitoring hydration and electrolyte levels (choice D) is important for overall health but not specific to frailty assessment.