A nurse is performing an abdominal assessment of an older adult patient. When collecting and analyzing data, the nurse should be cognizant of what age-related change in gastrointestinal structure and function?
Increased gastric motility
Increased gag reflex
Decreased mucus secretion
Decreased gastric pH
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
In older adults, gastric motility tends to decrease rather than increase.
Choice B reason:
The gag reflex may diminish with age, making older adults more prone to swallowing difficulties.
Choice C reason:
This statement is correct. With aging, there is a decrease in mucus secretion in the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to dryness and potential discomfort.
Choice D reason:
Gastric pH tends to increase with age, which can affect the digestion and absorption of certain nutrients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asterixis is a characteristic sign of hepatic encephalopathy, characterized by a flapping tremor of the hands. It is associated with liver dysfunction and is indicative of impaired ammonia metabolism in the brain.
Choice B reason:
Fetor hepaticus refers to a musty, sweet odor of the breath that is associated with severe liver disease. It is not related to the flapping tremor observed in this case.
Choice C reason:
Palmar erythema is a reddening of the palms and is associated with various conditions, including liver disease. However, it is not the sign described in the scenario.
Choice D reason:
Constructional apraxia is a neurological deficit characterized by difficulty in copying or constructing simple drawings or designs. It is not related to the flapping tremor seen in hepatic encephalopathy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- A: This response minimizes the client's feelings and may make them feel unheard. It's important for healthcare providers to acknowledge a patient's feelings and provide reassurance in a more empathetic manner.
- B: This response delays addressing the client's concerns and may increase his anxiety. Consent is important, but it should not be a barrier to discussing care and addressing concerns.
- C: This response is factual but does not address the client's immediate concern about pain. It's crucial to address the client's fears directly rather than deflecting to the procedure's necessity.
- D: This response directly addresses the client's concern about pain by informing him of the sedative, which is a common practice to reduce discomfort during a colonoscopy. It provides reassurance and factual information about the procedure's process.
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