ATI RN
geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale Questions
Question 1 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 2 of 9
The nurse is reviewing the care plan of an 89 yr old client who has been admitted for prostate surgery. The client is on medication for hypertension and had a recent fall at home prior to admission. The nurse would include which assessment in the care plan?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Checking postural blood pressures is essential to assess for orthostatic hypotension in an elderly client with a history of falls and hypertension medication. Orthostatic hypotension can lead to falls, so monitoring postural B/Ps is crucial. Checking B/P every 2 hours (choice A) is not necessary and could cause unnecessary discomfort to the client. Checking serum sodium levels (choice C) and serum creatinine levels (choice D) are not directly related to the client's risk factors for falls post-prostate surgery.
Question 3 of 9
What is the primary consideration when initiating care for older adults with palliative care needs?
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.
Question 4 of 9
Which of the following statements best conveys an aspect of diabetes and the older adult?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it accurately reflects the multifactorial nature of diabetes in older adults. Age-related changes, coupled with lifestyle factors like poor diet and lack of exercise, contribute to the high incidence of diabetes in this population. This statement acknowledges the complexity of diabetes in older adults. B is incorrect because while nurses should have knowledge about diabetes in older adults, the statement does not specifically address the multifactorial nature of the disease in this population. C is incorrect because ethnicity can indeed play a role in diabetes risk and should not be dismissed outright. D is incorrect because the development of diabetes is not considered a normal age-related change; it is a medical condition that can be influenced by various factors.
Question 5 of 9
The common symptom associated with moderate to severe peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is___.
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.
Question 6 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 7 of 9
In the management of older adults with dementia, which approach is considered best for reducing agitation and aggression?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because consistent routines and environmental modifications have been shown to be the most effective approach in reducing agitation and aggression in older adults with dementia. This approach focuses on providing structure and familiarity, which can help decrease confusion and anxiety in individuals with dementia. Physical restraints (A) are not recommended as they can lead to further agitation and pose risks of injury. Increased sedation with antipsychotics (B) should be used as a last resort due to potential side effects and risks. Ignoring the behavior (D) is not appropriate as it can exacerbate the situation and lead to further distress for the individual.
Question 8 of 9
When assessing a frail older adult, which of the following is a key indicator of potential sarcopenia?
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.
Question 9 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.