A healthy 70-year-old patient has low hemoglobin levels and no signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
The nurse recognizes which item is an effect of aging that could be the reason for the low hemoglobin level?
Low level of hepcidin.
Increase in iron-binding capacity.
Decrease in intestinal absorption of iron.
Decrease in erythropoietin secretion from the kidneys.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
A low level of hepcidin would not cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Hepcidin regulates iron homeostasis by inhibiting the absorption of iron from the intestines and promoting its storage in cells.
Choice B rationale:
An increase in iron-binding capacity typically occurs in conditions like iron deficiency anemia, where the body tries to increase its capacity to transport iron. This would not cause a low hemoglobin level in an otherwise healthy individual.
Choice C rationale:
Aging often leads to a decrease in the efficiency of nutrient absorption, including iron. This decrease in intestinal absorption of iron can result in low hemoglobin levels in elderly individuals. It's a common cause of anemia in the elderly population.
Choice D rationale:
Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells. A decrease in erythropoietin secretion from the kidneys would lead to anemia, but it is not a typical effect of aging and is usually associated with kidney disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is: B. Normocytic.
Choice A rationale: Microcytic erythrocytes, or smaller-than-normal red blood cells, are typically seen in chronic conditions like iron deficiency anemia, not acute blood loss.
Choice B rationale: Normocytic erythrocytes, or normal-sized red blood cells, are usually seen in acute blood loss as the body's initial response doesn't alter the size of red blood cells.
Choice C rationale: Hypochromic erythrocytes, or paler-than-normal red blood cells, are more common in chronic anemia states such as iron deficiency.
Choice D rationale: Megaloblastic erythrocytes, or abnormally large red blood cells, are seen in conditions like vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, not in acute blood loss.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Chronic stable angina typically occurs with both activity and rest due to the increased oxygen demand of the heart during exertion. It is relieved with rest or nitroglycerin, which helps to decrease the heart's workload. This choice accurately represents the characteristic of chronic stable angina.
Choice B rationale:
Chronic stable angina usually lasts for a short duration, usually around 5 minutes, and is relieved with rest or nitroglycerin. Prolonged pain lasting 10-15 minutes or more could indicate an unstable angina or myocardial infarction. This choice is incorrect for chronic stable angina.
Choice C rationale:
Pain due to chronic stable angina subsides when the precipitating factor, such as physical exertion, is resolved or with medication like nitroglycerin. Therefore, this statement is incorrect for chronic stable angina.
Choice D rationale:
Chronic stable angina follows a predictable pattern, occurring intermittently over a period of time, and is usually triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. This option does not accurately represent the typical pattern of chronic stable angina.
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