Which of the following statements is true about analgesic medications for older adults?

Choice A reason: Altering modifiable risk factors is a good goal for anyone who wants to improve their health and wellness, but it is not specific to the case of the African American man who already has a normal blood pressure and no apparent health problems. Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed by lifestyle choices, such as smoking, diet, exercise, stress, or alcohol consumption.

Choice B reason: Maintaining tight glycemic control is a relevant goal for people who have diabetes or prediabetes, as it can help prevent or delay the complications of high blood sugar, such as nerve damage, kidney damage, or eye damage. However, there is no indication that the African American man has diabetes or prediabetes, so this goal is not applicable to him.

Choice C reason: Recognizing disease in its early stages is a general goal for everyone who wants to prevent or treat health problems, but it is not specific to the case of the African American man who has no signs or symptoms of any disease. Moreover, this goal is more reactive than proactive, as it implies waiting for disease to occur rather than preventing it.

Choice D reason: Preventing cardiovascular disease is the best goal for the nurse to use to assist the African American man in maintaining his health and wellness into older age, as it is specific, proactive, and evidence-based. According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and it is more prevalent and severe among African Americans than other racial groups. Therefore, the nurse would advise the African American man to monitor his blood pressure regularly, follow a healthy diet, exercise moderately, avoid smoking, and take medication if needed to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Choice A reason: Physical status is an important assessment for post-fall prevention, as it can identify the possible causes and consequences of the fall, such as injuries, pain, mobility, balance, strength, vision, hearing, cognition, and medication use. Physical status can also help determine the appropriate interventions and referrals for the older adult, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or home health care.

Choice B reason: Financial status is not an essential assessment for post-fall prevention, as it does not directly affect the risk or outcome of the fall. However, financial status may influence the older adult's access to health care, social support, and assistive devices, which may affect their recovery and quality of life. Financial status may also be a source of stress or anxiety for the older adult, which may impair their mental and emotional well-being.

Choice C reason: Occupational history is not an essential assessment for post-fall prevention, as it does not directly affect the risk or outcome of the fall. However, occupational history may provide some information about the older adult's past and current activities, skills, and interests, which may help tailor the interventions and goals for the older adult. Occupational history may also reflect the older adult's sense of identity, purpose, and satisfaction, which may affect their motivation and engagement.

Choice D reason: Environment is an important assessment for post-fall prevention, as it can identify the potential hazards and barriers that may contribute to the fall, such as poor lighting, slippery floors, clutter, loose rugs, stairs, or furniture. Environment can also help determine the appropriate modifications and adaptations that can reduce the risk of future falls, such as installing grab bars, handrails, ramps, or alarms. Environment can also influence the older adult's comfort, safety, and independence at home or in other settings.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there are two choices that are essential assessments for post-fall prevention.