A nurse is assessing an older adult client. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an expected physiological change associated with aging?

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the client to ambulate is not appropriate when the client has a high fever of 40°C (104°F). Ambulation requires physical exertion and can potentially worsen the client's condition, especially when they are already experiencing discomfort due to the fever.

Choice B rationale:

Giving the client a cold sponge bath might seem like a logical approach to reduce fever; however, it is not the most effective and safest method. Cold water can cause vasoconstriction and shivering, potentially increasing the body's metabolic demands and raising the temperature further. Additionally, sudden temperature changes can be uncomfortable and may not provide sustained fever reduction.

Choice C rationale:

Administering antipyretics as prescribed is the correct choice. Antipyretic medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, work to lower fever by acting on the hypothalamus, the body's temperature-regulating center. By reducing fever, the body's metabolic rate and oxygen consumption are decreased, which can help prevent complications associated with high fever, such as dehydration and discomfort.

Choice D rationale:

Providing a cooling fan can offer some comfort, but it might not be sufficient to effectively lower the client's high fever. Fans primarily work by promoting evaporative cooling, which may not be efficient when the body temperature is significantly elevated. Additionally, relying solely on a cooling fan might delay the necessary intervention of administering antipyretic medication.

Choice A rationale:

Teaching the most crucial content early in the session is an effective strategy to engage learners and ensure that they receive essential information. This approach captures their attention and provides a solid foundation for the rest of the session. It helps establish relevance and interest, keeping the learners engaged throughout the educational program.

Choice B rationale:

Assuming that learners have no prior knowledge of first aid might not be the best approach. Adult learners often come with varying levels of knowledge and experience. It's important to assess the learners' prior knowledge and adjust the content accordingly to avoid redundancy or information that is too basic for them.

Choice C rationale:

Repetition of procedures and techniques is a valuable teaching strategy. Repetition aids in retention and comprehension. Reiterating important points reinforces learning and helps participants remember critical steps in first aid procedures. Avoiding repetition can lead to incomplete understanding and retention.

Choice D rationale:

Dividing the planned program into several sessions held about 1 week apart might not be the most effective strategy for community education. Spacing the sessions too far apart could result in learners forgetting the content or losing interest. It's better to maintain a consistent schedule to ensure continuity and engagement.