A nurse is caring for a client with asthma. Which of the following statements are true regarding physiological changes of the respiratory system in the aging adult client?

Choice A Reason:

A client with a decreased potassium level is incorrect. Hypokalemia (decreased potassium level) can cause various neurological symptoms, but it doesn't directly lead to osmotic cerebral edema.

Choice B Reason:

When plasma glucose levels are rapidly lowered, an osmotic gradient develops between the brain and plasma, which can lead to cerebral edema.Brain cells pull water from the plasma, resulting in widespread edema.

Choice C Reason:

While HbA1c is an important marker of diabetes control and may indicate poor long-term management, it does not directly relate to the acute metabolic derangements (e.g., rapid osmotic shifts, severity of acidosis) that predispose to cerebral edema in DKA.

Choice D Reason:

A client with an increased creatinine level is incorrect. Elevated creatinine levels typically indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration, but they don't directly cause osmotic cerebral edema.

Choice A Reason:

Loss of teeth is not typically considered a direct factor contributing to obstructive sleep apnea. While the presence of teeth may play a role in maintaining the structure of the oral cavity, it is not a primary risk factor for OSA.

Choice B Reason:

Stroke is correct. Individuals who have had a stroke are at increased risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. Stroke can cause damage to areas of the brain involved in controlling breathing and upper airway function, leading to disruptions in respiratory control during sleep.

Choice C Reason:

Sleepiness is a symptom commonly associated with obstructive sleep apnea rather than a direct contributing factor. Excessive daytime sleepiness is a consequence of disrupted sleep patterns and recurrent episodes of breathing cessation during the night, which are characteristic features of obstructive sleep apnea.

Choice D Reason:

Fatty deposits is correct. Excessive fatty deposits, particularly around the neck and throat, can contribute to the narrowing and collapse of the upper airway during sleep, increasing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity is a significant risk factor for OSA due to the accumulation of fat deposits in the upper airway tissues.

Choice E Reason:

Muscle dysfunction is correct. Muscle dysfunction, particularly of the muscles surrounding the upper airway, can impair the ability of these muscles to keep the airway open during sleep. Weakness or dysfunction of these muscles can lead to increased collapsibility of the upper airway, contributing to obstructive sleep apnea.