Which patient assessment data does the nurse recognize could contribute to an older adult's risk of hyperthermia?

A. Assist with obtaining informed consent from the client.
Explanation: Informed consent is a critical aspect of healthcare procedures, but it requires the patient to have the capacity to understand and make decisions. In this scenario, the client is intubated and on mechanical ventilation, which might compromise their ability to communicate effectively. If the client lacks capacity, obtaining consent from the durable power of attorney (POA) is more appropriate.

B. Refer to the client's advance directive for a name.
Explanation: Advance directives, including the durable POA, provide guidance on a person's wishes for healthcare decisions when they are unable to communicate. However, the advance directive may not always specify a particular person's name for decisions related to specific medical interventions. The key consideration in this situation is to determine the current decision-making capacity and involve the appropriate decision-maker if needed.

C. Determine the client's inability to make reasonable decisions.
Explanation: This is the correct answer. In this scenario, the nurse should assess the client's capacity to make decisions. If the client lacks capacity, the durable POA can be activated to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the client. Capacity involves the ability to understand relevant information, appreciate the consequences of decisions, and communicate a choice.

D. Use the oral trail-making test to measure cognitive function.
Explanation: The oral trail-making test is a cognitive screening tool, but it may not be suitable in this critical care scenario with an intubated and mechanically ventilated patient. Moreover, the primary concern in this situation is determining the capacity to make healthcare decisions, which requires a more comprehensive evaluation than a specific cognitive function test. The focus should be on decision-making capacity rather than a cognitive assessment.

A. Women have significantly higher mortality rates from hip fractures than do men.
Explanation: This statement is generally true. Women, particularly older women, tend to have higher mortality rates associated with hip fractures compared to men. This is partly because women are more prone to osteoporosis, a condition that increases the risk of fractures.

B. Hip fractures are associated with very high morbidity and mortality.
Explanation: This statement is generally true. Hip fractures can have significant consequences, including increased morbidity and mortality. Complications, such as infections, immobility-related issues, and other medical conditions, can contribute to the overall impact on health.

C. Hip fractures are a leading cause of hospitalization for older people.
Explanation: This statement is generally true. Hip fractures are a common reason for hospitalization among older adults. The severity of the injury often requires medical intervention, surgery, and rehabilitation.

D. Nearly all older patients who sustain a hip fracture will regain prefracture mobility status within 1 year.
Explanation: This statement is not accurate. While many older patients can regain some mobility with appropriate rehabilitation, not all will regain their prefracture mobility status. The extent of recovery varies among individuals and depends on factors such as overall health, comorbidities, and the severity of the fracture.

E. The major cause of hip fractures is falls.
Explanation: This statement is accurate. Falls are a major cause of hip fractures in older adults. Understanding and addressing factors contributing to falls are essential in preventing hip fractures.