Which of the following issues in the care of older adults are identified in Healthy People 2020?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Healthy People 2020 focuses on improving the health and well-being of all individuals, including older adults. Step 2: Identifying minimum levels of training for people who care for older adults is crucial to ensure quality care. Step 3: This issue aligns with the goal of promoting quality of care and safety for older adults. Step 4: Other choices are not directly addressed in Healthy People 2020 goals. Summary: Choice C is correct as it directly relates to improving the care of older adults, while the other choices focus on specific issues not highlighted in Healthy People 2020.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Confusion or cognitive decline. In older adults, dehydration can manifest differently than in younger populations. Cognitive decline is a key sign of dehydration in older adults due to the brain being more sensitive to fluid loss. Dehydration can lead to confusion, disorientation, and impaired cognitive function in older individuals. Dark-colored urine (A) is a common sign of dehydration in all age groups. Increased thirst (B) is a general sign of dehydration but may not be as prominent in older adults due to decreased thirst sensation. Dry mouth and skin (C) are also common signs of dehydration but may not be as reliable indicators in older adults compared to cognitive changes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer, B, is the primary role of the gerontological nurse when providing end-of-life care for a terminally ill older adult. This choice emphasizes the importance of pain management, comfort care, and preserving the patient's dignity. The nurse's focus should be on enhancing the quality of life and ensuring the patient's comfort rather than pursuing aggressive curative treatments (A). Administering sedatives (C) should be based on individual needs and preferences, not as a blanket approach. While family involvement is crucial, the nurse should still advocate for the patient's autonomy and preferences, rather than solely relying on family decisions (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because health disparity refers to variations in health outcomes among different groups due to factors such as socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, etc. This definition accurately captures the essence of health disparity as it highlights the unequal distribution of health outcomes. Choice A is incorrect because it refers to cultural elimination, which is not the definition of health disparity. Choice C is incorrect as it talks about differences in expected and actual incidence, not health outcomes among groups. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses on values and perspectives rather than health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Malnutrition and dehydration. Malnutrition and dehydration are major risk factors for pressure ulcers in older adults because they can lead to poor skin integrity, reduced tissue resilience, and impaired wound healing. Lack of sleep (choice A) may contribute to overall health issues but is not a direct risk factor for pressure ulcers. Excessive physical activity (choice C) can increase the risk of injury but does not directly cause pressure ulcers. High blood pressure (choice D) is a risk factor for cardiovascular issues but is not specifically linked to the development of pressure ulcers.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the holistic health movement emphasizes treating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. This shifts the focus from merely treating symptoms to considering individual well-being and lifestyle factors. Choice A is not the best answer because while disease prevention is part of holistic health, it is not the primary impact on health care. Choice C is incorrect as the movement does not directly improve access to health care. Choice D is also incorrect as while alternative modalities are part of holistic health, they are not the main impact on health care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Historical. In age-stratification theory, cohort members are described in historical context to explain shared experiences. This theory emphasizes that individuals born around the same time experience similar events shaping their lives. Historical context is crucial as it considers the societal, cultural, and economic factors influencing a specific generation. Choice B, Biological, is incorrect as age-stratification theory focuses on social aspects rather than biological ones. Choice C, Sociological, is broad and doesn't specifically address the historical aspect of cohort description. Choice D, Chronological, is incorrect as it simply refers to the order of events without considering the historical backdrop of a cohort's experiences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consistent mental and physical activity. Engaging in mental and physical activities can help improve cognitive function, increase brain plasticity, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Regular stimulation of the brain through activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can help delay the onset of dementia. Physical activity also promotes overall brain health by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A: Strict dietary restrictions may have some benefits for overall health, but there is limited evidence to suggest that it directly delays the onset of dementia. C: Regular social isolation can actually increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, as social interaction is important for brain health. D: Pharmacologic interventions to control hypertension may be important for overall health, but they are not specifically shown to delay the onset of dementia in older adults.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: high likelihood of orthostatic hypotension upon rising quickly. Orthostatic hypotension is a common issue in the elderly, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness and falls. This factor directly contributes to the high incidence of falls in the elderly. Increased muscle mass and tone (A) actually reduce the risk of falls, while improving eyesight in dim light (C) would decrease the risk. Constipation (D) is not directly related to falls in the elderly.