A nurse is teaching a class about expected physiological changes in older adult clients.
Which of the following changes should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:

"Depends on their friends for emotional support.”. While it's common for adolescents to rely on their friends for emotional support, this behavior is not necessarily indicative of a problem. Depending on friends for emotional support can be a healthy part of adolescent development, and it does not specifically relate to the loss of a parent.

Choice B rationale:

"Clings to their caregiver.”. The correct answer, "Clings to their caregiver," is a common response to the loss of a parent in adolescence. When adolescents experience the death of a parent, they often feel a strong need for emotional support and security. They may cling to their remaining caregiver, seeking comfort and reassurance during this challenging time.

Choice C rationale:

"Exhibits toileting problems.”. Exhibiting toileting problems can be a potential response to stress and emotional distress, but it is not the most expected or specific finding when a parent has recently died. This behavior may be more common in younger children who are still developing their coping mechanisms.

Choice D rationale:

"Reports tightness in their chest.”. While emotional distress can manifest physically, such as chest tightness, it is not the most characteristic finding when a parent has recently died. Clinging to a caregiver and seeking emotional support are more typical responses in adolescents.

Choice A rationale:

Increasing the heat in the client's room is not the appropriate action for managing dyspnea. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is not typically related to room temperature. Other interventions should be prioritized.

Choice B rationale:

Performing nasotracheal suctioning for the client is not the initial action to address dyspnea at the end of life. Suctioning is indicated when there is excessive secretions or airway obstruction but should not be the first intervention for dyspnea.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the head of the client's bed flat is not the best action for a client experiencing dyspnea. Elevating the head of the bed (Fowler's position) is the recommended position to improve lung expansion and reduce dyspnea in clients with breathing difficulties.

Choice D rationale:

Administering an opioid narcotic to the client is the most appropriate action for managing dyspnea at the end of life. Opioid medications, such as morphine, are often used to relieve severe dyspnea in hospice and palliative care settings. These medications can help relax the client and reduce the sensation of breathlessness. .