An older adult patient arrives at the clinic reporting decreased strength in knees and handgrips. What action should the nurse include in a functional assessment of this patient?
Inquire about the frequency of falls in recent months.
Ask the patient how often episodes of sundowning are experienced.
Assist the patient with clarifying values about end-of-life care options.
Request the patient to lie as still as possible for the assessment.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Inquiring about the frequency of falls in recent months is an important part of a functional assessment for an older adult patient reporting decreased strength in knees and handgrips. Falls can be a sign of decreased muscle strength and balance, which can be associated with aging and certain medical conditions.
Choice B rationale
Sundowning, or increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening, is a symptom often associated with dementia, not necessarily with decreased strength in knees and handgrips.
Choice C rationale
While discussing end-of-life care options is an important aspect of comprehensive patient care, it is not directly related to the patient’s reported symptoms of decreased strength.
Choice D rationale
Requesting the patient to lie as still as possible for the assessment may not provide comprehensive information about the patient’s functional mobility and strength.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Given the client’s risk factors of poor wound healing, decreased bone density, and increased capillary fragility, the most appropriate outcome statement to include in the plan of care is that the client implements measures to prevent injury. This includes avoiding falls, using caution with sharp objects to prevent cuts, and taking steps to protect the bones.
Choice B rationale
While it is important for the client to understand their disease and ways to control it, this is not the most appropriate outcome statement given the client’s specific risk factors.
Choice C rationale
Improving body image may be a relevant goal for some clients with Cushing’s syndrome, but it is not the most appropriate outcome statement given the client’s specific risk factors.
Choice D rationale
Experiencing a normal fluid balance may be a relevant goal for some clients with Cushing’s syndrome, but it is not the most appropriate outcome statement given the client’s specific risk factors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While switching to less anxiety-provoking questions might help in some situations, it does not address the immediate issue of the client undressing inappropriately.
Choice B rationale
Ignoring the client’s inappropriate behavior could potentially encourage further inappropriate actions and does not respect the therapeutic boundaries necessary in a nurse-client relationship.
Choice C rationale
Leaving the client’s room might escalate the situation further and does not address the immediate issue.
Choice D rationale
The nurse should assertively but respectfully communicate that undressing is not appropriate during the interview. This sets clear boundaries and expectations for the client’s behavior.
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