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?
Dyspnea is not commonly seen in other chronic conditions of the aging older adult.
Aging is associated with decreased sensitivity to medications.
Adverse reactions to medications in the aging older adult are lower.
Physiological changes in the respiratory system can mimic the presence of airway obstruction.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Dyspnea is not commonly seen in other chronic conditions of the aging older adult: This statement is incorrect. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, can occur in various chronic conditions commonly seen in aging adults, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, and pulmonary fibrosis, among others. Dyspnea can be a symptom of respiratory or cardiovascular issues and is not exclusive to asthma.
Choice B Reason:
Aging is associated with decreased sensitivity to medications: This statement is generally incorrect. Aging can affect drug metabolism and clearance, leading to changes in medication sensitivity. Older adults may have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, which can increase their sensitivity to certain medications, particularly those with sedative or CNS depressant effects. This increased sensitivity can potentially increase the risk of adverse drug reactions.
Choice C Reason:
Adverse reactions to medications in the aging older adult are lower: This statement is incorrect. While some physiological changes associated with aging may decrease the risk of adverse drug reactions, such as decreased renal function and altered drug metabolism, older adults are still at risk for adverse drug reactions due to factors such as polypharmacy, drug interactions, and increased sensitivity to medications.
Choice D Reason:
Physiological changes in the respiratory system can mimic the presence of airway obstruction: This statement is true. Physiological changes in the aging respiratory system, such as decreased lung elasticity, increased chest wall stiffness, and reduced respiratory muscle strength, can mimic the symptoms of airway obstruction seen in conditions like asthma or COPD. These changes can lead to decreased lung function, reduced exercise tolerance, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Sexual intercourse is correct. Stimulation of the genitalia or other areas below the level of injury can trigger autonomic dysreflexia in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Choice B Reason:
Tight clothing is correct. Any form of tight or restrictive clothing, including belts or waistbands, can stimulate the body below the level of injury and trigger autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice C Reason:
Nausea is incorrect. While nausea itself is not a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, it may occur as a result of the condition. Autonomic dysreflexia can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, due to the sudden increase in blood pressure.
Choice D Reason:
Surgery below the level of injury is correct. Surgical procedures performed below the level of the spinal cord injury can lead to stimulation of the body below the injury site, triggering autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice E Reason:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) is correct. Infections of the urinary tract, especially those involving the bladder or urethra, can stimulate the body below the level of injury, leading to autonomic dysreflexia.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Spinal cord injuries can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, impairing the body's ability to regulate temperature (thermoregulation). This can lead to temperature sensitivity, with clients experiencing issues such as difficulty sweating, shivering, or adapting to extreme temperatures.
Choice B Reason:
Contractures, which are the shortening and tightening of muscles, tendons, or ligaments, can occur as a complication of spinal cord injuries. Immobility and spasticity commonly seen in SCI can contribute to the development of contractures.
Choice C Reason:
Sexual dysfunction is a common complication of spinal cord injuries. SCI can affect sexual function and reproductive health due to changes in sensation, mobility, and autonomic nervous system function.
Choice D Reason:
Disc degeneration, or degenerative disc disease, typically occurs as a result of aging and wear and tear on the spinal discs. While SCI may lead to changes in spinal alignment and biomechanics, it is not a direct cause of disc degeneration.
Choice E Reason:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complication of spinal cord injuries. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction, which is common in SCI, can lead to urinary retention, incomplete bladder emptying, and urinary stasis, increasing the risk of UTIs.
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