geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Intermittent claudication, defined as pain in the lower extremities with walking that improves with rest, is a classic symptom of moderate to severe PAD. This occurs due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles during exercise. Other choices are incorrect: A is typically associated with syncope or fainting; B is more indicative of cardiovascular or pulmonary issues; and C is more commonly seen in mesenteric ischemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Identifying goals of care through open conversations with the patient and family. This is crucial because palliative care for older adults should be person-centered and align with their preferences and values. By engaging in open conversations, healthcare providers can understand the individual's goals, values, and wishes, allowing for care to be tailored accordingly. This approach emphasizes holistic care beyond just managing pain and considers the patient's emotional, spiritual, and social needs. Incorrect choices: A: Focusing primarily on managing pain with medications overlooks the importance of addressing other aspects of care. C: Avoiding advanced medical treatments is not always appropriate as each situation should be assessed individually. D: Prescribing hospice care immediately may not be necessary or desired by the patient, as it depends on their specific needs and preferences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because measuring gait speed, grip strength, and weight loss are key components of assessing frailty in older adults. Gait speed reflects physical function, grip strength indicates muscle weakness, and unintentional weight loss signifies nutritional deficits, all of which are common indicators of frailty. Evaluating cognitive decline and social isolation (choice A) is important but not specific to frailty assessment. Presence of depression and anxiety (choice C) may contribute to frailty but do not directly assess it. Monitoring hydration and electrolyte levels (choice D) is important for overall health but not specific to frailty assessment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because using large size fonts on written material is important for elderly individuals in assisted living facilities who may have visual impairments. This accommodation ensures that the residents can easily read and understand the information being presented. This is crucial for effective communication and engagement in the educational program. A: While using simple language is generally beneficial, the primary concern for this specific population is visual accessibility rather than language complexity. C: Providing the program in a quiet area is important for minimizing distractions, but it is not as critical as ensuring the residents can read the material. D: While building on prior knowledge is a good practice in teaching, it is secondary to ensuring that the information is visually accessible to the residents.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: C - Maintain blood pressure below 120/70 mm Hg. Rationale: 1. Older African American individuals are at higher risk for hypertension. 2. African American men have a higher prevalence of hypertension compared to other demographic groups. 3. Hypertension is a common health issue among Jamaican individuals. 4. Keeping blood pressure below 120/70 mm Hg helps prevent complications like stroke and heart disease. Summary: A. Attributing illness to voodoo is culturally inappropriate and lacks evidence-based practice. B. Improving social relationships may be beneficial but is not directly related to the man's health needs. D. Reviewing magicoreligious systems is not relevant to addressing the man's health issues like hypertension.