The nurse is caring for an elderly patient who has been admitted with pneumonia.
The nurse knows that elderly patients are at increased risk for respiratory infections because of which of the following factors?
(Select all that apply.).
Decreased immune response
Decreased chest wall compliance
Decreased alveolar surface area.
Decreased oxygen saturation.
Decreased bronchial dilation.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
The correct answer is A, B and C.
These are the factors that increase the risk of respiratory infections in elderly patients:.
• Decreased immune response: Elderly patients have a weaker immune system that makes them more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. They also have a poor response to respiratory vaccines.
• Decreased chest wall compliance: Elderly patients have reduced elasticity of the lungs and chest wall, which makes it harder for them to breathe and expel mucus.
• Decreased alveolar surface area: Elderly patients have fewer and larger alveoli, which reduces the gas exchange area and oxygen diffusion capacity.
Choice D is wrong because decreased oxygen saturation is not a risk factor, but a consequence of respiratory infections.
Choice E is wrong because decreased bronchial dilation is not a specific factor for elderly patients, but a common feature of obstructive lung diseases.
Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95-100% and for bronchial dilation are variable depending on the type and severity of the disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer isA, B, C and D.
These are all factors that can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in older adult clients.
A. Decreased immune system function with aging.This can make older adults more susceptible to infections and less able to fight them off.
B. Lack of knowledge or awareness about STIs.
Older adults may not have received adequate education or information about STIs, their symptoms, prevention and treatment.They may also have misconceptions or stigma about STIs that prevent them from seeking help or testing.
C. Reduced use of condoms or other barrier methods.
Older adults may not perceive themselves as at risk of STIs or may not know how to use condoms correctly or consistently.They may also face barriers such as cost, availability, embarrassment or partner resistance to using condoms.
D. Increased number of sexual partners or casual encounters.
Older adults may have more opportunities for sexual activity due to factors such as divorce, widowhood, online dating, travel or retirement.They may also engage in sexual behaviors that expose them to multiple or unknown partners, such as sex work, drug use or group sex.
Choice E is wrong becauseincreased vaginal dryness or atrophy with menopauseis not a risk factor for STIs in older adult clients.
While this condition can cause discomfort, pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse, it does not increase the likelihood of acquiring or transmitting an STI.However, it may affect the quality of life and sexual satisfaction of older women and their partners, and may require medical attention or lubrication products.
: Johnson BK.
Sexually transmitted infections and older adults.J Gerontol Nurs 2013;39(11):53-60.: World Health Organization (WHO).
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).2022 Aug 22.: Journal of Gerontological Nursing (JGN).
Sexually Transmitted Infections and Older Adults.
2013 Sep 18.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer isA, B, C, and E.
The nurse should ask the client about medications, vision problems, home environment, and urinary incontinence as these are all factors that could contribute to falls in older adults.
• Medicationscan increase the risk of falls because they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or low blood pressure.Some medications that can increase the risk of falls include sedatives, antidepressants, antihypertensives, diuretics, and anticholinergics.
• Vision problemscan impair the ability to see obstacles, judge depth and distance, or adjust to changes in light.Some vision problems that can increase the risk of falls include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
• Home environmentcan pose safety hazards that can cause tripping, slipping, or losing balance.Some home hazards that can increase the risk of falls include loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, slippery floors, uneven surfaces, and lack of handrails or grab bars.
• Urinary incontinencecan lead to rushed movements to the bathroom or frequent nighttime trips that can increase the risk of falls.Urinary incontinence can be caused by various factors such as bladder infections, prostate problems, pelvic floor weakness, or medication side effects.
Choice D is wrong because thyroid function is not a direct factor that contributes to falls in older adults.However, thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can affect other factors such as muscle strength, bone density, heart rate, or blood pressure that can indirectly increase the risk of falls.
Normal ranges for thyroid function tests vary depending on the laboratory and the method used.However, a common reference range for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L and for free thyroxine (FT4) is 0.8 to 1.8 ng/dL.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
