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 A
Explanation
A. Apply a moisture barrier ointment to the client's skin
Applying a moisture barrier ointment creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing prolonged exposure to moisture, which can lead to skin breakdown in individuals with urinary incontinence. Keeping the skin dry and protected is essential in preventing skin irritation and breakdown.
B. Check the client's skin every 8 hr for signs of breakdown - Skin should be assessed more frequently, ideally every 2-4 hours, especially in clients with urinary incontinence, to detect signs of breakdown early.
C. Clean the client's skin and perineum with hot water after each episode of incontinence - Hot water can be harsh on the skin and exacerbate irritation. It's recommended to use mild, warm water and gentle cleansing techniques. Harsh cleaning methods can damage the skin.
D. Request a prescription for the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter - Indwelling urinary catheters pose an increased risk of infection and other complications. Catheters should only be used when absolutely necessary, and preventive measures should be taken to manage incontinence without catheterization whenever possible.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sedentary lifestyle - Lack of weight-bearing exercise and physical activity is a significant risk factor for the development of osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises help maintain bone density and strength. Sedentary individuals are more prone to osteoporosis.
B. Long-term use of diuretics - Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Diuretics are not typically associated with osteoporosis risk, although some medications can affect bone health.
C. Prolonged stress - Chronic stress can have negative effects on overall health, but it is not a direct risk factor for osteoporosis.
D. Obesity - Obesity is generally considered a protective factor against osteoporosis. Individuals with higher body weight tend to have stronger bones due to the mechanical load placed on the bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
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