A 70-year-old male client who is convalescing from a hip replacement is identified as being at risk for developing a pressure ulcer. Which physical characteristic of aging contributes most to this risk factor?
A decreased ability to communicate.
Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity.
A 16 percent increase in overall body fat.
Calcium loss in the bones.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B: Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity.
Choice A rationale:
While a decreased ability to communicate can be a significant challenge in elderly clients, it is not the primary physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers develop due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage.
Choice B rationale:
Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity is a critical physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. As the skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age, it becomes more susceptible to injury from pressure and shear forces, increasing the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
A 16 percent increase in overall body fat does not directly contribute to the risk of pressure ulcers. While changes in body composition occur with aging, the primary risk factors for pressure ulcers are related to skin integrity and mobility, not body fat percentage.
Choice D rationale:
Calcium loss in the bones (osteoporosis) is not the main contributing factor to pressure ulcers. Osteoporosis primarily affects bone density and strength but does not directly influence the development of pressure ulcers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame.
Choice A rationale:
Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not address the improper placement of the drainage bag. The immediate concern is to ensure the drainage bag is correctly positioned to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale:
Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.
Choice C rationale:
Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full, so this action is not urgent.
Choice D rationale:
Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag, which is the primary concern in this situation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the best intervention for the PN to implement because it monitors the client's fluid status and helps detect fluid overload, which can cause hypertension and neurological changes. The PN should weigh the client at the same time, on the same scale, and with the same clothing every day.
A. Using a cushion when sitting is not a priority intervention for this client and may not address the BP or mental status issues.
B. Performing range of motion exercises is not a priority intervention for this client and may not address the BP or mental status issues.
C. Documenting abdominal girth is not a priority intervention for this client and may not be an accurate indicator of fluid status.
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