A gerontologic nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about integumentary changes that occur in older adults, such as thinning skin. How should these students best integrate these changes into care planning?
By avoiding the use of ice packs to treat muscle pain
By protecting older adults against excessive sweat accumulation
By protecting older adults against shearing injuries
By avoiding the use of lotion on older adults' skin
The Correct Answer is C
A. Avoiding the use of ice packs to treat muscle pain - While ice packs can cause skin damage in older adults with thinning skin, it is not the most appropriate response to the question. Protecting against shearing injuries is a more direct and specific concern related to thinning skin.
B. Protecting older adults against excessive sweat accumulation - Excessive sweat accumulation can lead to skin irritation, but this option does not directly address the issue of thinning skin as the primary concern in the question.
C. By protecting older adults against shearing injuries
Thinning skin in older adults makes them more vulnerable to skin injuries, especially shearing injuries. Shearing occurs when the skin is pulled in one direction while the underlying bone and tissues are pulled in the opposite direction. This can lead to skin tears and other wounds, which can be painful and slow to heal in older adults. Nurses should take special precautions to prevent shearing injuries, such as using lift sheets or sliding devices when moving patients, and ensuring that patients are repositioned frequently to reduce friction and shearing forces.
D. Avoiding the use of lotion on older adults' skin - Proper moisturization of the skin is important, especially in older adults, to prevent dryness and skin breakdown. Avoiding lotion is not a recommended practice; instead, choosing appropriate, non-irritating lotions can help maintain skin integrity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypovolemic shock: Hypovolemic shock occurs when there is a significant loss of blood or fluids in the body, leading to insufficient blood volume to maintain normal circulation. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, and cold, clammy skin. While hypovolemic shock is a concern in trauma patients, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not typical of hypovolemic shock.
B. Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism syndrome occurs when fat particles are released into the bloodstream, often after a long bone fracture or trauma. These fat particles can block small blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as respiratory distress, confusion, and petechial rash (small red or purple spots under the skin). While fat embolism syndrome is a concern in patients with long bone fractures, the symptoms described by the client are more suggestive of a pulmonary embolism.
C. Venous thromboembolism (VTE): VTE refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, while pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. Symptoms of PE can include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and cough, which may produce bloody or blood-streaked sputum. Given the client's symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain, VTE, specifically pulmonary embolism, is a significant concern.
D. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow and potential nerve damage. Symptoms can include severe pain, swelling, and numbness or tingling. While compartment syndrome is a complication of fractures, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not characteristic of compartment syndrome.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
No explanation
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.