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. Driving in heavy traffic is fine as long as it is not raining.
Explanation: Driving in heavy traffic can pose challenges for individuals, especially those who may experience age-related changes in vision, reaction time, and cognitive function. The recommendation is to avoid heavy traffic, especially if it might increase stress and the likelihood of accidents.
B. If you have a passenger, you may drive at any time of the day.
Explanation: The presence of a passenger does not necessarily eliminate the potential challenges associated with age-related changes in driving abilities. It is important for older individuals to consider factors such as time of day, visibility, and overall driving conditions.
C. Limit driving to familiar places close to home.
Explanation: Limiting driving to familiar places close to home is a safer practice for older individuals who may face challenges with vision, reaction time, and other factors that can impact driving. Familiar routes are more likely to be navigated confidently, reducing the risk of getting lost or encountering unexpected challenges.
D. Playing music will help keep you alert.
Explanation: While playing music can be enjoyable, it may not be an effective strategy for maintaining alertness, especially during challenging driving conditions. The focus should be on adopting safe driving habits and minimizing distractions to ensure overall safety on the road.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. He is able to name objects with which he comes in contact correctly.
Explanation: Being able to name objects correctly indicates intact language and object recognition skills, which are positive aspects of cognitive function.
B. He is constantly checking to see whether what he did is correct.
Explanation: Constantly checking to see whether what he did is correct may be an indicator of anxiety or uncertainty about cognitive performance. While this behavior alone does not confirm cognitive impairment, it raises a question about the individual's confidence or potential challenges in decision-making.
C. He is able to hold a conversation with you.
Explanation: Holding a conversation demonstrates language and communication abilities, suggesting intact cognitive skills for social interaction.
D. His attention span will last as long as the project he is working on.
Explanation: Having an attention span that matches the duration of a project suggests a focused and goal-oriented approach, which can be a positive aspect of cognitive function.
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