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
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
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