The nurse is providing care for a geriatric patient with loss of hearing acuity over the past several years. Which statement by the nurse is most accurate?
"Many people experience an age-related decline in their hearing."
"You will need to get hearing aids in order to function in society."
"This is often due to an infection that will resolve on its own."
This is likely an effect of your medications. Try stopping them for a few days."
The Correct Answer is A
A. Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a common condition among older adults. It typically involves a gradual decline in hearing ability due to changes in the inner ear or auditory nerve as people age. This statement acknowledges a common experience and helps normalize the patient's condition without suggesting immediate medical intervention or attributing it to something specific.
B. While hearing aids can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss, not all cases immediately require them. It’s important to assess the severity of hearing loss and discuss various options with the patient, including potential benefits and drawbacks of hearing aids.
C. Hearing loss that develops gradually over time is usually related to aging, not an infection. While infections can cause temporary hearing loss, age-related hearing loss is a different issue and is typically not due to an infection.
D. While some medications can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss as a side effect (a condition known as ototoxicity), it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to medication regimens.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The immediate concern with abrupt cessation is more related to adrenal insufficiency rather than hyperglycemia. However, chronic use of prednisone can contribute to glucose intolerance and diabetes, but this is not the primary issue with sudden discontinuation.
B. Abrupt discontinuation of prednisone can lead to adrenal insufficiency because the body has become reliant on the medication to suppress inflammation and regulate various bodily functions. The adrenal glands may not immediately resume normal cortisol production, which can lead to symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, including hypotension.
C. Fluid retention is a common side effect of prednisone use. However, stopping prednisone suddenly does not typically cause fluid retention; rather, it can lead to other issues like adrenal insufficiency. Fluid retention is more related to the medication's use rather than its abrupt discontinuation.
D. Abruptly stopping high-dose prednisone, especially after long-term use, can be dangerous. The body may not immediately resume normal cortisol production, leading to symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as fatigue, weakness, and hypotension. It is crucial to taper off prednisone gradually under medical supervision to allow the adrenal glands time to recover and to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ethnicity alone is not a known risk factor for ALS. ALS has a relatively uniform incidence across different ethnic groups. Studies have not demonstrated a significant correlation between ALS and being of Asian descent specifically.
B. There is limited evidence suggesting that consuming well water could be associated with an increased risk of ALS, particularly if the well water is contaminated with certain toxins or heavy metals. However, this is not a widely established risk factor and is less directly linked to ALS compared to other known risk factors.
C. Working in agriculture has been identified as a potential risk factor for ALS. Agricultural workers are often exposed to various environmental toxins, pesticides, and herbicides, which have been associated with an increased risk of developing ALS. This occupational exposure is considered a significant risk factor for the disease.
D. Military veterans are known to have an increased risk of developing ALS. Several studies have shown that veterans, particularly those who served in combat or were exposed to specific environmental hazards during their service, have a higher incidence of ALS compared to the general population.
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