A healthy 70-year-old patient has low hemoglobin levels and no signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
The nurse recognizes which item is an effect of aging that could be the reason for the low hemoglobin level?
Low level of hepcidin.
Increase in iron-binding capacity.
Decrease in intestinal absorption of iron.
Decrease in erythropoietin secretion from the kidneys.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
A low level of hepcidin would not cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Hepcidin regulates iron homeostasis by inhibiting the absorption of iron from the intestines and promoting its storage in cells.
Choice B rationale:
An increase in iron-binding capacity typically occurs in conditions like iron deficiency anemia, where the body tries to increase its capacity to transport iron. This would not cause a low hemoglobin level in an otherwise healthy individual.
Choice C rationale:
Aging often leads to a decrease in the efficiency of nutrient absorption, including iron. This decrease in intestinal absorption of iron can result in low hemoglobin levels in elderly individuals. It's a common cause of anemia in the elderly population.
Choice D rationale:
Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells. A decrease in erythropoietin secretion from the kidneys would lead to anemia, but it is not a typical effect of aging and is usually associated with kidney disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is not specifically harmful for patients with thrombocytopenia, though it is important to ensure fluid intake is balanced with the individual's needs. However, excessive water intake is generally not related to increased bleeding risks, which is a primary concern for patients with low platelet counts.
Choice B rationale: Shaving once a day using an electric razor is an appropriate precaution for patients with thrombocytopenia. Electric razors are less likely to cause cuts compared to traditional razors, thereby reducing the risk of bleeding. This measure is important for individuals with low platelet counts to minimize the risk of bleeding from minor injuries.
Choice C rationale: Using an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day is not recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia. Alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes, which may lead to bleeding, especially in individuals with low platelet counts. Instead, non-alcoholic mouthwashes should be used to maintain oral hygiene without the risk of causing mucosal damage.
Choice D rationale: Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia. Soft-bristle toothbrushes help reduce the risk of gum injury and bleeding, which is important for individuals with low platelet counts. Maintaining good oral hygiene with minimal trauma is crucial for these patients
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Silent ischemia refers to a lack of oxygen to the heart that doesn't cause symptoms like chest pain. It is often diagnosed during an electrocardiogram (ECG) done for other reasons. The patient in this scenario is experiencing chest pain, so silent ischemia is not the correct choice.
Choice B rationale:
Angina decubitus refers to chest pain that occurs while lying down and is relieved by standing or sitting. The patient in this scenario is experiencing chest pain at rest, which is not characteristic of angina decubitus.
Choice D rationale:
Chronic stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that typically occurs with activity or stress and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. The patient in this scenario is experiencing chest pain at rest, which is not characteristic of chronic stable angina.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.