Which thermoregulatory condition is an elderly person most at risk for?
Hypothermia.
Normothermia.
Hyperthermia.
Malignant hyperthermia.
The Correct Answer is A
Hypothermia is a condition where the body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F) and affects the normal functioning of the body. Elderly people are more at risk for hypothermia because they have a lower muscle mass, a decreased
shiver reflex, and lower immunity. They also tend to have a lower body temperature and may not develop fevers when they contract a viral or bacterial illness.
Choice B. Normothermia is wrong because it means having a normal body temperature, which is around 37°C (98.6°F).
Choice C. Hyperthermia is wrong because it means having a high body temperature, which is above 37.5°C (99.5°F).
Hyperthermia can be caused by heat exposure, infection, inflammation, or certain medications.
Choice D. Malignant hyperthermia is wrong because it is a rare genetic disorder that causes a severe reaction to certain anesthetics or muscle relaxants.
It is not related to thermoregulation in elderly people.
Question 5.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Localized warmth at the site of injury is a sign of localized inflammation of the tissues, which is a response to tissue damage caused by an ankle injury. Localized inflammation involves changes in blood flow, vessel permeability, and leukocyte migration to the site of injury. Heat is one of the five classic signs of acute local inflammation, along with redness, swelling, pain, and loss of function.
Choice A is wrong because 3+ palpable pedal pulses below the affected injury site indicate normal blood flow to the foot and do not reflect inflammation.
Choice B is wrong because full range of motion at the site of injury is unlikely in the presence of inflammation, which usually causes pain and loss of function.
Choice C is wrong because sanguineous drainage at the site of injury is a sign of bleeding, not inflammation.
Inflammation may cause fluid leakage from blood vessels, but this fluid is usually clear or yellowish, not bloody.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Replacing wet clothing with dry clothing is an independent nursing intervention that can help prevent further heat loss and gradually warm the patient. Soaking extremities in hot water (choice A) is not recommended because it can cause vasodilation and hypotension. Administering warmed intravenous fluids (choice B) and administering hot whirlpool therapy (choice C) are not independent nursing interventions because they require a physician’s order. They are also not appropriate for mild to moderate hypothermia because they can cause rapid rewarming and cardiac dysrhythmias.
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