A nurse is planning care for an older adult client who has constipation due to decreased intestinal motility.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Encourage fluid intake of at least 2 L/day.
Provide a low-fiber diet.
Administer a stimulant laxative daily.
Discourage physical activity.
The Correct Answer is A
Encourage fluid intake of at least 2 L/day.
This is because adequate hydration can help soften the stool and facilitate its passage through the intestines. Fluid intake should be increased gradually to avoid fluid overload or electrolyte imbalance.
Choice B is wrong because a low-fiber diet can contribute to constipation by reducing the bulk and water content of the stool.
Fiber helps retain water in the stool and stimulate peristalsis. A high-fiber diet is recommended for clients who have constipation.
Choice C is wrong because a stimulant laxative should not be used daily or for a long period of time, as it can cause dependence, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and damage to the intestinal mucosa. Stimulant laxatives should be used only as a last resort when other measures fail.
Choice D is wrong because physical activity can help prevent constipation by increasing intestinal motility and blood flow. Physical activity should be encouraged for clients who have constipation, unless contraindicated by other conditions.
Normal ranges for fluid intake are about 2 to 3 L/day for adults, depending on age, weight, activity level, and climate. Normal ranges for fiber intake are about 25 to 38 g/day for adults, depending on age and sex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D.
Decreased mental status.Dehydration in elderly people can cause confusion, disorientation, or drowsiness due to the loss of water and electrolytes from the body.
These symptoms can affect the cognitive function and alertness of the client.Dehydration can also lead to complications such as kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances, or low blood pressure.
Choice A is wrong because increased skin turgor is not a sign of dehydration.
Skin turgor is the ability of the skin to return to its normal shape after being pinched or pulled.Dehydration causes decreased skin turgor, meaning the skin stays tented or wrinkled after being pinched.
Choice B is wrong because decreased pulse rate is not a sign of dehydration.Dehydration causes increased pulse rate, as the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the vital organs when there is less fluid in the body.
Choice C is wrong because increased urine output is not a sign of dehydration.Dehydration causes decreased urine output, as the kidneys try to conserve water and produce more concentrated urine.
The urine may also be darker in color than normal.
Normal ranges for fluid intake and output vary depending on age, weight, activity level, and health status.
However, a general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day and produce at least 30 mL of urine per hour.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
The correct answer is A, B and C.
These are the factors that increase the risk of respiratory infections in elderly patients:.
• Decreased immune response: Elderly patients have a weaker immune system that makes them more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections.They also have a poor response to respiratory vaccines.
• Decreased chest wall compliance: Elderly patients have reduced elasticity of the lungs and chest wall, which makes it harder for them to breathe and expel mucus.
• Decreased alveolar surface area: Elderly patients have fewer and larger alveoli, which reduces the gas exchange area and oxygen diffusion capacity.
Choice D is wrong because decreased oxygen saturation is not a risk factor, but a consequence of respiratory infections.
Choice E is wrong because decreased bronchial dilation is not a specific factor for elderly patients, but a common feature of obstructive lung diseases.
Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95-100% and for bronchial dilation are variable depending on the type and severity of the disease.
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