geriatric nursing practice questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increasing protein intake. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength in older adults, aiding in the prevention and management of malnutrition. Protein also supports immune function and wound healing. Reducing calorie intake (A) can exacerbate malnutrition, as older adults need adequate nutrition. Avoiding all fats (C) is not recommended as healthy fats are essential for brain health and nutrient absorption. Limiting hydration (D) can lead to dehydration and worsen malnutrition. In summary, increasing protein intake is the most important factor in managing malnutrition in older adults due to its vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing muscle loss.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, dramatic loss of melanin. Melanin is a pigment responsible for skin color and does not play a role in the development of pressure ulcers. Shearing, decreased body weight, and malnutrition (decreased serum albumin) are all known risk factors for pressure ulcers in the elderly. Shearing can lead to tissue damage, decreased body weight can indicate poor nutrition and muscle wasting, and malnutrition can impair wound healing and skin integrity. Therefore, D is the correct answer as it does not contribute to the likelihood of an elderly person developing a pressure ulcer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Being adequately nourished. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections like tuberculosis. Diabetes (A), living in crowded institutions (B), and immunosuppression (D) all lower immunity, increasing the risk of developing TB. In summary, adequate nutrition is not a risk factor for TB in the elderly, while diabetes, institutional living, and immunosuppression are.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor the client's blood glucose level. Tremors and confusion in a client with diabetes could indicate hypoglycemia. Monitoring blood glucose levels will confirm if the client's symptoms are due to low blood sugar. Providing a full meal (B) may worsen the situation by delaying the increase in blood sugar. Asking the client to rest (C) does not address the underlying cause. Administering insulin immediately (D) without knowing the current blood glucose level can further lower blood sugar levels. Hence, monitoring the blood glucose level is the most appropriate initial action.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because Mezey and Fulmer (2002) justify gerontological nursing research by emphasizing that it positively influences outcomes from nursing care. This is supported by evidence showing how research in gerontological nursing can lead to improved quality of care for older adults. Other choices are incorrect: A is not directly supported by the justification provided by Mezey and Fulmer (2002), C is too specific and not the main focus of their justification, and D is not mentioned in the justification and does not address the impact of research on nursing care outcomes.