Which of the following is the most important intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in older adults?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Regular repositioning every 2 hours. Repositioning helps to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, improving blood flow and preventing tissue damage. This intervention is evidence-based and recommended in pressure ulcer prevention guidelines. Administering pain medications before repositioning (B) does not address the root cause of pressure ulcers. Encouraging excessive hydration (C) may have other health benefits but does not directly prevent pressure ulcers. Using restrictive bandages (D) can actually increase pressure and worsen the risk of pressure ulcers.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Maintaining cognitive function is crucial for adapting to changes and problem-solving in older age. Step 2: Social engagement helps combat loneliness and promotes mental well-being. Step 3: Both factors contribute to a higher quality of life and overall well-being in older individuals. Summary: A is incorrect as chronic diseases are common in aging. C is incorrect due to over-reliance on medical interventions. D is incorrect as independence doesn't necessarily equate to successful aging.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are a common cause of delirium in hospitalized older adults due to their impact on the central nervous system. UTIs can lead to systemic inflammation and affect cognitive function, resulting in delirium. Other choices like medication side effects, sleep deprivation, and electrolyte imbalances can contribute to delirium but are not as common or direct as UTIs in this population.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the Nurse Competence in Aging (NCA) initiative focuses on developing resources for nurses to access evidence-based information on topics related to the care of older adults. This is evident in the initiative's goal to enhance the knowledge and skills of nurses caring for older adults. The other choices are incorrect because A is not specific to the NCA initiative, C pertains to scholarships rather than resources for accessing information, and D is incorrect as the NCA initiative did not develop the first certification in gerontological nursing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Lack of physical exercise contributes the most to aging-related cognitive decline. Regular physical exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promotes neurogenesis, and enhances cognitive function. It also reduces the risk of developing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Chronic stress (A) can impact cognitive function, but it is not the primary factor in aging-related decline. Poor nutrition (B) can negatively affect brain health, but exercise has a more significant impact. Social isolation (C) is also detrimental to cognitive health, but physical exercise has been shown to have a more substantial influence on cognitive decline in aging individuals.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 90 y.o woman with advanced Parkinson's dz. Older adults with advanced Parkinson's disease are more vulnerable to abuse due to their physical and cognitive impairments. They may be dependent on caregivers, making them easy targets for abuse. The other choices do not indicate significant vulnerability to abuse. Choice A is a common demographic but lacks specific vulnerability factors. Choice B with cataracts and Choice D with early Lyme disease do not inherently increase the risk of abuse.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pneumonia. Older adults are more susceptible to pneumonia due to weakened immune systems and underlying health conditions. Pneumonia can lead to severe complications, requiring hospitalization. Osteoarthritis (A) primarily affects joints and does not typically lead to hospitalization. Stroke (B) and heart failure (D) are serious conditions but may not be as common for hospitalization as pneumonia in older adults. Pneumonia's impact on the respiratory system and its ability to progress rapidly make it the most common reason for hospitalization in this population.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Facilitate family rituals related to death and dying. In end-of-life care, it is essential to support the older adult and their family in their cultural and spiritual practices to promote comfort and closure. This intervention aligns with the goals of long-term care by addressing the psychological and emotional needs of the patient and family. Providing a basin and towels (B) focuses on physical self-care, which may not be a priority in end-stage disease. Decreasing analgesic dose (A) can compromise pain management and quality of life. Informing family members about strict visiting hours (C) can hinder emotional support and connection during this critical time.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Physical exercise. Engaging in physical exercise has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, promote the growth of new brain cells, and enhance cognitive function. This helps maintain brain health and may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Other choices are not as directly related to brain health. B: Stimulating mental activity is important but not as effective as physical exercise in preventing dementia. C: Socialization is beneficial for overall well-being but does not have a direct impact on brain health. D: Crossword puzzles are a form of mental stimulation, but physical exercise has a greater impact on brain health.