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: 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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a high-intensity lamp can provide better lighting for reading, addressing the difficulty the patient experiences in the evening. This intervention can improve visibility and reduce strain on the eyes. Option B is incorrect as arcus senilis is a common age-related condition but not a direct cause of difficulty reading. Option C is incorrect as simply increasing the power of fluorescent lights may not address specific visual needs for reading. Option D is incorrect as examining the retinas may not directly address the patient's difficulty in reading and is not the most appropriate initial intervention.

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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because gerontological nursing focuses on promoting health and maximizing independence in older adults. This statement aligns with the core principles of gerontological nursing, which emphasize holistic care and quality of life for elderly individuals. Choice A is incorrect because nurses have been involved in caring for older adults for a long time. Choice B is incorrect because gerontological care was not the second specialty certified by the ANA. Choice D is incorrect because ANA certification is not limited only to research positions in gerontological nursing.

Correct Answer:

Rationale: Correct Answer: Regular physical activity and healthy diet Rationale: 1. Regular physical activity helps maintain cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and balance in older adults, reducing the risk of falls and chronic diseases. 2. A healthy diet provides essential nutrients for overall health and helps prevent conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 3. Both components are key in primary prevention by promoting overall well-being, reducing the risk of age-related health issues, and enhancing quality of life. Incorrect Choices: A: Annual health screenings - While important for early detection, screenings alone do not prevent health issues. B: Social isolation prevention programs - Important for mental health, but not primary prevention. C: Routine medication management - Important for managing existing conditions, not primary prevention. D: Memory enhancement exercises - Beneficial for cognitive health but not primary prevention for physical health issues in older adults.

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because walking is a physical activity that promotes cardiovascular health, strength, and overall well-being. Regular exercise like walking 3-5 times per week for 30 minutes can help improve circulation, maintain healthy weight, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Cooking healthy meals (choice B) is important for nutrition but may not directly promote physical activity. Reading and knitting (choice C) are mentally stimulating but do not provide the physical benefits of exercise. Taking vitamins daily (choice D) is important for overall health but does not substitute for physical activity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it demonstrates empathy, collaboration, and a patient-centered approach. By asking how to work together, the nurse acknowledges the daughter's concerns and fosters a collaborative relationship. This approach respects the daughter's role in her mother's care and encourages open communication. Choice A is incorrect as it uses a threatening tone and may alienate the daughter, leading to a breakdown in communication. Choice B is incorrect as it dismisses the daughter's cultural values, which are important in providing holistic care. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests that the daughter is incapable of caring for her mother, which can be disempowering and offensive.