geriatric nursing exam questions with rationale

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 in most cultures, including Western ones, older adults are more likely to initially seek traditional or cultural methods of treatment before resorting to biomedical professionals. This is often due to cultural beliefs and practices ingrained in societies. A is incorrect because personalistic or magicoreligious beliefs still exist in Western societies alongside biomedical principles. C is incorrect because Ayurvedic medicine is a traditional Indian system of medicine, not the same as traditional Chinese medicine. D is incorrect because the belief in balancing opposite qualities is characteristic of holistic or traditional medicine practices, not necessarily magicoreligious belief systems.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because life expectancy is influenced by multiple factors such as gender, ethnicity, and living environment. Gender does play a role, but it is not the sole determinant. Ethnicity and living environment also significantly impact life expectancy. Genetic factors may contribute, but they are not the primary factor affecting life expectancy. Therefore, choice C is the most comprehensive and accurate statement. Choices A and B are incorrect as they oversimplify the factors that influence life expectancy, while choice D is also incorrect as it overlooks the significant impact of other factors beyond genetics.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because consistent routines and environmental modifications have been shown to be the most effective approach in reducing agitation and aggression in older adults with dementia. This approach focuses on providing structure and familiarity, which can help decrease confusion and anxiety in individuals with dementia. Physical restraints (A) are not recommended as they can lead to further agitation and pose risks of injury. Increased sedation with antipsychotics (B) should be used as a last resort due to potential side effects and risks. Ignoring the behavior (D) is not appropriate as it can exacerbate the situation and lead to further distress for the individual.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because drinking hot chocolate before bed contains caffeine which can disrupt sleep. A is correct as exercise can promote better sleep. B is correct as smoking can affect sleep quality. D is correct as reading before bed can help relax the mind.