The blood pressure (BP) of a 71-year-old patient admitted with pneumonia is 160/70 mm Hg. Which age-related change contributes to this finding?
Stenosis of the heart valves.
Decreased adrenergic sensitivity.
Increased parasympathetic activity.
Loss of elasticity in arterial vessels.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Stenosis of the heart valves typically leads to murmurs and changes in heart sounds but does not directly impact blood pressure regulation.
Choice B rationale:
Decreased adrenergic sensitivity might lead to lower heart rate and blood pressure, not an increase in systolic blood pressure as seen in this case.
Choice C rationale:
Increased parasympathetic activity would lead to decreased heart rate, not an increase in systolic blood pressure as observed in the patient.
Choice D rationale:
Loss of elasticity in arterial vessels is the correct answer. With aging, arterial walls become less flexible and more rigid due to the accumulation of calcium and collagen. This loss of elasticity results in increased systolic blood pressure, which is the top number in a blood pressure reading. The diastolic pressure, represented by the bottom number, does not usually increase significantly with age. This change is a result of arteriosclerosis, which commonly occurs in elderly individuals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Enteric-coated iron is designed to be absorbed in the small intestine, not the stomach. Taking it with each meal might decrease its absorption due to interaction with food.
Choice B rationale:
Cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia, not microcytic hypochromic anemia. Taking cobalamin with green, leafy vegetables does not address the specific iron deficiency seen in microcytic hypochromic anemia.
Choice C rationale:
Take the iron with orange juice 1 hour before meals is the correct answer. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods and iron supplements) by reducing it to a more absorbable form. Taking iron supplements with orange juice, which is high in vitamin C, can significantly improve iron absorption. Taking it before meals ensures better absorption due to reduced interaction with other dietary components.
Choice D rationale:
Decreasing the intake of antiseizure medications will not improve microcytic hypochromic anemia. Antiseizure medications do not directly influence iron absorption or the production of red blood cells.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Uses an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day.
Choice A rationale:
Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is generally beneficial as it helps maintain hydration and supports overall health. However, it is important to balance fluid intake to avoid overhydration.
Choice B rationale:
Shaving with an electric razor is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia because it reduces the risk of cuts and bleeding compared to using a traditional razor.
Choice C rationale:
Using an alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the oral mucosa, which can lead to bleeding, especially in patients with thrombocytopenia. It is better to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
Choice D rationale:
Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush is advised to minimize the risk of gum bleeding and maintain oral hygiene.
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