The mortality rate for burns is highest in the elderly population. What factors put the very elderly at a high risk? (Select all that apply.)
Elderly tend to heal more slowly.
The elderly person has a greater proportion of body surface area per amount of body mass.
The elderly person has less physiological reserves.
Elderly patients have thicker skin.
Elderly patients have comorbidities.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
The elderly tend to heal more slowly which can delay wound healing and increase the risk of infection. The elderly person has a greater proportion of body surface area per amount of body mass which increases the amount of skin available for injury, and thus the severity of the burn. The elderly person has less physiological reserves which makes it more difficult for the body to respond to injury and stress. Elderly patients have comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease that can impair the body's ability to heal and increase the risk of complications. Elderly patients do not typically have thicker skin as it thins with age.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Altered level of consciousness (LOC). Increased ICP can cause decreased LOC or changes in mental status, including confusion, agitation, or coma.
Options A, amnesia, and B, tachycardia, are not necessarily indicative of increased ICP, while option D, hypotension, is actually a sign of decreased ICP. Monitoring for elevated ICP is critical in patients with traumatic brain injury, and early recognition and intervention can be lifesaving. The nurse should report any changes in the patient's level of consciousness or other neurological symptoms to the provider immediately.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Prevent the client from harming herself or others. Withdrawal from alcohol can lead to autonomic hyperactivity and is most concerning when it involves seizures, deliriums tremens, and hallucinations which can be potentially life-threatening. Therefore, the nurse's priority when caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal is to prevent harm to the client by implementing seizure precautions and monitoring the client's vital signs.
Choice A, identifying the use of defense mechanisms, is an important aspect of treatment but can be addressed later.
Choice C, supporting the client's coping skills, is not a priority intervention.
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