A nurse is reinforcing teaching with an older adult client about physical changes that occur with aging. Which of the following should the nurse include as an expected age-related change?
Increased nail growth due to buildup of calcium deposits
Increased perspiration due to overproduction by the sweat glands
Increased cardiac output due to weakened heart walls
Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage
The Correct Answer is D
d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.
Explanation:
The correct answer is d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.
When teaching an older adult client about age-related changes, it is important for the nurse to provide accurate and relevant information. Joint stiffness is a commonly experienced age-related change that occurs due to the natural loss of elasticity in joint cartilage. As people age, their joints may become stiffer and less flexible, making movements and activities more challenging.
Option a is not the correct answer. Increased nail growth due to the buildup of calcium deposits is not an expected age-related change. Nail growth is primarily determined by factors such as genetics, overall health, and nutritional status, rather than calcium deposits.
Option b is not the correct answer. Increased perspiration due to overproduction by the sweat glands is not an expected age-related change. In fact, older adults may experience a decrease in the production of sweat, which can make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
Option c is not the correct answer. Increased cardiac output due to weakened heart walls is not an expected age-related change. With aging, the heart muscles may become stiffer and less efficient, leading to a decrease in cardiac output rather than an increase.
By focusing on the expected age-related change of increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage, the nurse can provide accurate information and help the older adult client understand and manage this common aspect of the aging process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A:
An absent dorsal pedal pulse would indicate a vascular problem such as arterial occlusion, not a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In the case of DVT, blood flow in the veins is obstructed, but the arterial pulse, which is related to arterial circulation, should remain intact unless there is a separate arterial issue. Therefore, absent pulses are not characteristic of DVT.
Choice B:
Shiny, hairless skin is a sign typically associated with chronic arterial insufficiency, not DVT. This skin change occurs when there is poor arterial blood flow, which leads to a lack of nourishment for the skin, causing it to become thin and shiny. In contrast, DVT affects the veins and does not usually cause these skin changes in the acute phase.
Choice C:
Irregular, bulging veins are indicative of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, not a DVT. Varicose veins occur when the veins become swollen and twisted due to weak or damaged valves. DVT, on the other hand, involves the formation of a clot in the deep veins and does not typically cause the veins to bulge visibly, especially in the early stages.
Choice D:
Dull, aching pain is a common symptom associated with deep vein thrombosis. This pain typically occurs in the affected extremity and is often described as a constant, aching sensation. The pain can worsen with movement or standing and is due to the inflammation and obstruction caused by the blood clot in the deep veins. This is a hallmark sign of DVT, along with swelling and redness in the affected limb.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The statement by the client that indicates an understanding of the teaching is "I plan to take water aerobics classes at the gym near my house." Exercise is an important part of managing osteoarthritis, and water aerobics is a low-impact exercise that can help improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Option ais incorrect because applying cold compresses may not be the most effective way to manage pain associated with osteoarthritis. Heat therapy is often more effective for this condition.
Option b is incorrect because limiting purine intake in the diet is recommended for clients with gout, not osteoarthritis.
Option d is incorrect because ibuprofen can be an effective pain reliever for clients with osteoarthritis.
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