A 79-year-old client resides independently in the community. The visiting home health nurse finds that despite it being 90°F outside, the windows are closed and the client is wearing a sweater. The nurse initially recognizes that this behavior may be related to what?
Age-related motor deficiencies that result in self-neglect
Age-related neurosensory changes that diminish awareness of temperature changes
Delirium-related to an acute illness that is affecting body heat production
Cognitive changes that diminish the individual's awareness of temperature changes
The Correct Answer is B
A. Age-related motor deficiencies that result in self-neglect.
Explanation: While age-related motor deficiencies could potentially impact a person's ability to dress appropriately, the specific scenario described (wearing a sweater despite high temperatures) is more indicative of sensory awareness issues rather than motor deficiencies.
B. Age-related neurosensory changes that diminish awareness of temperature changes.
Explanation: As individuals age, there can be neurosensory changes that affect their ability to perceive temperature accurately. This can result in older adults being less aware of changes in temperature, leading to behaviors such as dressing inappropriately for the weather. In this scenario, the client wearing a sweater despite the high temperature outside may be attributed to diminished awareness of the actual environmental temperature.
C. Delirium related to an acute illness that is affecting body heat production.
Explanation: Delirium may indeed affect a person's cognitive and functional abilities, but the scenario does not provide evidence of delirium or an acute illness. The focus is on the client's behavior related to dressing inappropriately for the weather, which is more suggestive of sensory awareness issues.
D. Cognitive changes that diminish the individual's awareness of temperature changes.
Explanation: This option is similar to the correct answer (Option B). Cognitive changes, particularly in awareness, can contribute to inappropriate dressing for the weather in older adults. The primary distinction here is that the term "neurosensory changes" in Option B specifically highlights alterations in sensory perception.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Decreased serum albumin levels.
Explanation: Decreased serum albumin levels can be an indicator of poor nutritional status, but they are not as immediate or easily observed as unintentional weight loss.
B. Decreased vitamin D levels.
Explanation: Decreased vitamin D levels may indicate a specific nutrient deficiency but may not capture the overall nutritional status comprehensively.
C. Unintentional weight loss.
Explanation: Unintentional weight loss is a significant indicator of potential nutritional deficits and can be associated with underlying health issues. It can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, negatively impacting an individual's overall health and well-being. Weight loss should prompt further assessment and intervention to identify the underlying causes and address nutritional needs
D. Anorexia lasting more than 24 hours.
Explanation: Anorexia (loss of appetite) lasting more than 24 hours may contribute to inadequate nutrient intake, but it is not as direct an indicator as unintentional weight loss, which reflects changes in body composition and overall nutritional status.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Side rails do not decrease falls, but they do decrease fall-related injuries."
Explanation: While side rails may reduce the severity of injuries if a fall occurs, they are not proven to decrease the overall rate of falls. Additionally, side rails themselves can pose risks, including entrapment.
B. There is no evidence that side rail use decreases falls, and in fact, there is a greater risk of injury."
Explanation: The use of side rails as a fall prevention measure has been associated with risks and has not been shown to effectively decrease the overall rate of falls. There is evidence that side rails can contribute to injuries, including entrapment, when patients attempt to climb over or through them. The focus in fall prevention has shifted towards individualized assessments, environmental modifications, and other strategies that address the specific needs and risks of each patient.
C. "Side rails are only effective when used with patients who have dementia."
Explanation: The effectiveness of side rails is not limited to patients with dementia. However, the use of side rails as a general fall prevention strategy has been questioned, and their use should be carefully considered based on individual assessments and risks.
D. "Side rails have only proven to be effective in decreasing falls in patients who have already fallen."
Explanation: The use of side rails is not universally proven to be effective in decreasing falls, even in patients who have previously fallen. The decision to use side rails should be based on a thorough assessment of the individual's needs and risks, considering alternatives to promote safety.
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