A nurse educator is teaching student nurses about droplet precautions. The educator emphasizes the differences between indications for droplet precautions versus airborne precautions. Which of the following statements about droplet precautions are correct? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A. Older adult skin is typically more fragile and prone to injury and tears due to decreased elasticity and thinning. Handling the skin gently helps prevent trauma, skin tears, and bruising, promoting skin integrity and comfort.

C. Older adults are more susceptible to temperature changes and may have difficulty regulating body temperature. Appropriate clothing that helps maintain warmth without causing overheating is essential. This includes wearing layers that can be easily adjusted and using fabrics that are breathable and comfortable.

D. Older adult skin tends to be drier due to decreased oil production and reduced hydration levels. Applying moisturizers after bathing helps replenish lost moisture, maintain skin hydration, and prevent dryness and cracking. It is important to choose moisturizers that are suitable for older adult skin and free from irritants.

B. Daily bathing may not be necessary or suitable for all older adults. Excessive bathing can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, the nurse should promote bathing frequency based on individual skin needs, such as using mild, moisturizing cleansers and lukewarm water.

E. Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining skin health and overall well-being in older adults. While fluid needs vary among individuals, restricting fluid intake to such a low level (1000 mL) is generally not

appropriate unless medically indicated. Older adults should be encouraged to maintain adequate hydration to support skin elasticity, circulation, and overall health.

C. Delirium is often reversible once the underlying cause is identified and treated (e.g., correcting electrolyte imbalances, managing infections, discontinuing medications contributing to delirium). With appropriate intervention, the mental status can improve, and the individual can return to their baseline cognitive function.

A. Dementia, on the other hand, is a chronic, progressive syndrome that primarily affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It does not typically cause acute changes in consciousness.

B. Memory impairment is a hallmark feature of dementia, especially in the early stages. In contrast, delirium primarily affects attention, awareness, and cognition acutely, with memory impairment being variable and not a defining feature.

D. Delirium develops rapidly, often over hours to days, in response to an acute medical condition, medication change, or other factors. It is characterized by a fluctuating course and can resolve once the underlying cause is managed.