A nurse is caring for an 83-year-old client who asks for a warm blanket despite the room temperature being 80°F. The nurse understands that which of the following physiological changes experienced by older adults makes it more difficult for them maintain their body temperature?
Decline in estrogen production
Increased blood pressure
Decreased muscle strength and tone
Decreased subcutaneous fat
The Correct Answer is D
A. Estrogen's role in temperature regulation is not as significant as other factors in the context of aging and body temperature maintenance.
B. Increased blood pressure itself does not directly influence the ability to maintain body temperature. While hypertension can have various effects on cardiovascular health, it is not a primary factor in the regulation of body temperature in older adults.
C. Decreased muscle strength and tone are significant factors affecting temperature regulation. Muscle activity generates heat, and a decline in muscle mass and strength can impair the body’s ability to generate and maintain adequate warmth.
D. Decreased subcutaneous fat is a key factor in temperature regulation. Subcutaneous fat acts as an insulator, helping to retain body heat. As people age, they often experience a decrease in subcutaneous fat, which reduces their ability to insulate and maintain body heat effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Secondary hypothyroidism is characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) due to inadequate stimulation from the pituitary gland, not due to overproduction. Overproduction of thyroid hormones would typically be associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
B. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. A deficiency in ACTH would lead to adrenal insufficiency or Addison's disease, not secondary hypothyroidism.
Secondary hypothyroidism specifically involves a deficiency in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), not ACTH.
C. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by inadequate production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by the pituitary gland. TSH is necessary for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). When the pituitary gland does not produce enough TSH, the thyroid gland is not adequately stimulated, leading to low levels of thyroid hormones in the blood.
D. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate sodium and potassium levels, as well as blood pressure. A deficiency in aldosterone is associated with conditions such as
Addison’s disease or primary adrenal insufficiency, not secondary hypothyroidism. Secondary
hypothyroidism specifically relates to issues with TSH production, not aldosterone.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This is useful for preventing atelectasis in patients who are unable to take deep breaths, but it is not the most critical piece of equipment for this client at this time.
B. While a Hoyer lift may be needed for mobility assistance in the future, it is not the most immediate priority.
C. Guillain-Barre syndrome can rapidly progress, leading to respiratory muscle weakness and the need for mechanical ventilation. Having an intubation tray readily available is crucial to ensure a prompt response if the client's respiratory status deteriorates.
D. A nebulizer is used to deliver medication to the lungs, but it is not the most critical piece of equipment for this client at this time.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
