Hyperglycemia is harder to detect in older adults due to which of the following?
The classic signs of elevated glucose levels, polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia are rarely present in older adults
Older adults tend to metabolize glucose at a faster rate than younger adults
Fingerstick glucose monitoring is inaccurate in older adults
There is a higher tolerance for elevated levels of circulating glucose in older adults
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The classic signs of elevated glucose levels, polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia are rarely present in older adults is true because older adults may have impaired thirst sensation, reduced appetite, or altered renal function that can mask these symptoms. They may also have other chronic conditions or medications that can affect their glucose levels or urine output.
Choice B reason: Older adults tend to metabolize glucose at a faster rate than younger adults is false because older adults usually have a slower metabolism and a reduced insulin sensitivity that can impair their glucose regulation. They may also have less muscle mass and more fat tissue that can affect their glucose utilization.
Choice C reason: Fingerstick glucose monitoring is inaccurate in older adults is false because fingerstick glucose monitoring is a reliable and convenient method to measure blood glucose levels in older adults, as long as they follow the proper technique and calibration. They may also benefit from using devices that have larger displays, voice output, or memory functions.
Choice D reason: There is a higher tolerance for elevated levels of circulating glucose in older adults is false because elevated levels of circulating glucose can cause serious complications in older adults, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, or infections. Older adults may have a higher risk of developing these complications due to their age, comorbidities, or frailty.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: 2400 mL/day is the recommended fluid intake for older adults, according to the National Council on Aging. This amount can help prevent dehydration, which can cause various health problems in older adults, such as urinary tract infections, constipation, confusion, and falls.
Choice B reason: 1920 mL/day is not enough fluid intake for older adults, as it is below the minimum requirement of 6-8 glasses of fluid a day, according to Age UK. This amount can increase the risk of dehydration and its complications in older adults.
Choice C reason: 3000 mL/day is too much fluid intake for older adults, as it exceeds the maximum limit of 10 glasses of fluid a day, according to The Conversation. This amount can cause overhydration, which can lead to hyponatremia, a condition where the sodium level in the blood becomes too low. Hyponatremia can cause symptoms such as nausea, headache, confusion, and seizures.
Choice D reason: 1500 mL/day is not enough fluid intake for older adults, as it is half of the recommended amount of 2400 mL/day, according to the National Council on Aging. This amount can increase the risk of dehydration and its complications in older adults.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fecal impaction is not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when hardened stool accumulates in the rectum and cannot be expelled. Fecal impaction may cause abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. Fecal impaction is more common in older adults, people with low-fiber diets, or people who take certain medications, such as opioids or anticholinergics.
Choice B reason: Diarrhea is the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when the stool is loose, watery, and frequent. Diarrhea may cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and malabsorption. Diarrhea can be caused by various factors, such as infections, food intolerance, medications, or irritable bowel syndrome.
Choice C reason: Constipation is not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when the stool is hard, dry, and infrequent. Constipation may cause straining, pain, bleeding, and hemorrhoids. Constipation can be caused by various factors, such as lack of fluids, fiber, or exercise, or certain medications, such as antacids or iron supplements.
Choice D reason: Hemorrhoids are not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as they are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that may cause itching, pain, or bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be caused by various factors, such as constipation, straining, pregnancy, or aging.
Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the most common gastrointestinal complaint.
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