Which neurologic finding would be considered abnormal in an 88-year-old patient?
Dizziness and problems with balance
Slow papillary response to light
Jerky eye movements
Absence of the Achilles tendon jerk
The Correct Answer is D
A. Dizziness and problems with balance
While dizziness and problems with balance can occur more frequently in older adults due to age-related changes in the vestibular system and other factors, persistent or severe dizziness or balance issues should be evaluated further as they could indicate underlying neurological or medical conditions.
B. Slow papillary response to light
This finding may be considered abnormal, especially if it represents a significant change from the individual's baseline. While age-related changes in pupil function can occur, a slow or sluggish pupillary response to light may indicate dysfunction of the oculomotor nerve or other neurological issues and should be investigated further.
C. Jerky eye movements
Jerky eye movements, such as nystagmus, can be abnormal and may indicate dysfunction of the vestibular system or other neurological conditions. While some degree of nystagmus can occur with age, persistent or severe jerky eye movements should be evaluated further.
D. Absence of the Achilles tendon jerk
This finding may also be considered abnormal. The Achilles tendon reflex, tested using the deep tendon reflex (DTR) examination, can diminish with age but should not be completely absent in the absence of specific medical conditions affecting the reflex arc or spinal cord function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["10"]
Explanation
To calculate the dose of valproic acid oral solution, the nurse should use the following formula:
Dose (mL) = Ordered dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL) x Volume (mL)
Plugging in the values from the question, we get:
Dose (mL) = 500 mg / (250 mg / 5 mL) x 5 mL
Simplifying, we get:
Dose (mL) = 500 mg / 50 mg x 5 mL
Dose (mL) = 10 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 10 of valproic acid oral solution to the patient.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Increased blinking
Increased blinking is not a typical manifestation of bradykinesia. In fact, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience reduced blinking (hypokinesia of blinking) rather than increased blinking.
B. States of euphoria
Euphoria is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Instead, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience a range of mood changes, including depression, anxiety, or apathy, but euphoria is not a common finding.
C. Slurred speech
This is the correct answer. Slurred speech, or dysarthria, can occur in individuals with Parkinson's disease as a result of bradykinesia affecting the muscles involved in speech production. Bradykinesia can cause a reduction in the speed and coordination of movements necessary for clear speech, resulting in slurred or mumbled speech patterns.
D. Decreased respiratory rate
Decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Bradykinesia primarily affects voluntary movements rather than involuntary processes such as respiration. While respiratory muscle weakness can occur in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease, it is not directly related to bradykinesia.
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