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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Orthostatic hypotension:

Orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, is a potential adverse effect of levodopa therapy. This can lead to dizziness and increase the risk of falls, thus supporting the nursing diagnosis Risk for Injury.

B. Nausea and vomiting:

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of levodopa therapy. While they can cause discomfort and dehydration, they are less directly related to the risk of physical injury compared to orthostatic hypotension.

C. Anorexia and depression:

Anorexia (loss of appetite) and depression can occur as adverse effects of levodopa therapy. While they can affect the patient's overall well-being and quality of life, they are not directly associated with an increased risk of physical injury.

D. Tachycardia and palpitations:

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and palpitations are less common adverse effects of levodopa therapy. While they may indicate cardiovascular issues, they are not typically associated with a direct risk of physical injury.

A. Muscle tremors B. Slow body movement (bradykinesia) C. Rigidity D. Pill rolling E. Lack of facial expression F. Drooling

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]

Explanation

A. Muscle tremors:

Muscle tremors, particularly resting tremors, are a hallmark feature of Parkinson's disease. These tremors typically occur in the hands, fingers, arms, legs, jaw, or head and may worsen with stress or inactivity.

B. Slow body movement (bradykinesia):

Bradykinesia refers to slowness of movement and is another key symptom of Parkinson's disease. Patients may have difficulty initiating movement, experience a decrease in spontaneous movement (hypokinesia), and demonstrate reduced range of motion.

C. Rigidity:

Rigidity, or stiffness of the muscles, is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease. It often affects the limbs and trunk and can contribute to difficulty with movement and posture.

D. Pill rolling:

Pill rolling refers to a specific type of tremor characterized by rhythmic, rolling movements of the thumb and fingers, resembling the action of rolling a pill between the fingers and thumb. This tremor is commonly seen in Parkinson's disease.

E. Lack of facial expression:

Parkinson's disease can lead to a reduced range of facial expressions, also known as hypomimia or "masked facies." Patients may have a fixed, expressionless facial appearance and reduced blinking.

F. Drooling:

Drooling, or excessive salivation, can occur in Parkinson's disease due to impaired swallowing function (dysphagia) and reduced control over oral and facial muscles.

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Which neurologic finding would be considered abnormal in an 88-year-old patient?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which adverse effects associated with levodopa therapy would support the nursing diagnosis Risk for Injury?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Parkinson's disease has which characteristic symptom(s)? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]

Explanation

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