A nurse is planning care for an older adult client.
The nurse should plan to monitor the client for which of the following?

Choice A rationale:

Widened peripheral vision. This choice is not an expected change in an older adult's vision. As individuals age, peripheral vision may diminish, but it doesn't typically widen. Therefore, this choice is not appropriate.

Choice C rationale:

Eyes with large pupils. Older adults often experience changes in the size of their pupils due to the aging process. Pupils may become smaller and less responsive to light, not larger. Thus, this choice is not accurate.

Choice D rationale:

Infections of the eye. While eye infections can occur in any age group, there's no specific reason to monitor an older adult for eye infections unless there are signs or symptoms suggesting an issue. It's not a routine aspect of care for older adults. Now, let's discuss the rationale for the correct answer, choice B:

Choice B rationale:

Increase in accommodation to near vision. This is the correct answer because it is a common age-related change in vision known as presbyopia. As individuals age, their ability to accommodate or focus on near objects diminishes. This change typically begins in the early 40s and progresses over time. It's a result of the lens of the eye becoming less flexible. Older adults may need reading glasses or bifocals to improve their near vision. The nurse should plan to monitor for this change as part of routine care for an older adult.

Choice A rationale:

Constipation in a client on bedrest is a common issue, and one of the primary interventions is to increase fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass, and can prevent constipation. This intervention is based on sound nursing principles and is the most appropriate choice.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to drink cold fluids is not a specific intervention for constipation. While staying hydrated is important, the temperature of the fluids is not as relevant to relieving constipation as the overall fluid intake.

Choice C rationale:

Requesting a prescription for mineral oil is not the first-line intervention for constipation. Mineral oil can have potential side effects and should only be used when other measures have failed. Increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber are typically the initial steps taken.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the client on a low-fiber diet is not an appropriate intervention for constipation. A low-fiber diet can exacerbate constipation by reducing the bulk and softness of the stool. This choice is counterproductive to addressing the issue.