When assessing an older male client, what are some issues that might put him at risk for dehydration? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: This action is correct because the client is showing signs of a possible stroke, such as a severe headache and numbness in one side of the body. The nurse should call 9-11 immediately to get the client to the nearest hospital for urgent evaluation and treatment. The nurse should also monitor the client's vital signs, neurological status, and airway until help arrives.

Choice B reason: This action is incorrect because the client's headache and numbness are not likely to be caused by a migraine, but by a stroke. The nurse should not waste time asking about the client's history of headaches, but rather act quickly to get the client to the hospital. The nurse should also not assume that the client's symptoms are benign or familiar, but rather treat them as an emergency.

Choice C reason: This action is incorrect because the client's headache and numbness are not likely to be relieved by acetaminophen, but by a stroke. The nurse should not give the client any medication without a doctor's order, especially if the client has a history of TIA or stroke. The nurse should also not delay calling 9-11 by administering medication, as every minute counts in saving the client's brain cells.

Choice D reason: This action is incorrect because the client's headache and numbness are not likely to resolve within 24 hours, but by a stroke. The nurse should not reassure the client that the symptoms are temporary or harmless, but rather alert the client that they are signs of a serious condition. The nurse should also not delay calling 9-11 by providing false comfort, as the client's condition may worsen rapidly.

Choice A reason: Demonstrating commitment to the special needs of the geriatric client by means of board-certification is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it shows that the nurse has met the standards of knowledge, skills, and practice in the field of gerontology. Board-certification also indicates that the nurse is dedicated to providing quality care and improving outcomes for the older adult population.

Choice B reason: Raising the level of professionalism for the geriatric facility is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a secondary benefit that may result from having certified nurses on staff. Professionalism is not only determined by the credentials of the nurses, but also by their attitudes, behaviors, and values.

Choice C reason: Assuring the basic competency of the geriatric nurse is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a minimum requirement that should be met by all nurses who work with older adults. Competency is not only measured by passing an exam, but also by demonstrating clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning.

Choice D reason: Addressing the current shortage of specialized geriatric nurses is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a challenge that cannot be solved by certifications alone. The shortage of geriatric nurses is influenced by many factors, such as the aging population, the lack of interest and incentives, and the high turnover and burnout rates.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications.