A nurse is assessing an older adult's nutritional status. The nurse understands that which of the following is the most important indicator for a potential nutritional deficit?

A. Optimize physical health

Explanation: A person-centered community focuses on promoting and optimizing the physical health of its residents. This may include access to healthcare services, wellness programs, and activities that support overall well-being.

B. Provide financial assistance

Explanation: While financial considerations can impact an individual's overall well-being, providing financial assistance is not a standard component of a person-centered community. The focus is more on holistic care, social engagement, independence, and addressing basic needs. Financial assistance is often managed through external programs or services.

C. Provide social engagement

Explanation: Social engagement is a crucial component of person-centered care. Communities that prioritize person-centered care create environments that foster social interaction, community involvement, and meaningful connections among residents.

D. Maximize independence

Explanation: Person-centered communities aim to maximize the independence of their residents. This involves tailoring care and support to the individual's needs while empowering them to maintain autonomy and control over their daily lives.

E. Address basic needs

Explanation: Addressing basic needs is fundamental in a person-centered community. This includes ensuring that residents have access to essential necessities such as food, shelter, and personal care to create a supportive and dignified living environment.

A. Pointing to a grimacing face or crying

Explanation: This behavior may indicate pain or discomfort, and it's important to assess and address the underlying cause.

B. Staring off into space

Explanation: Staring off into space may suggest disorientation or confusion. It's essential to evaluate whether this behavior is a manifestation of the client's cognitive impairment or if there are other contributing factors.

C. Aggression

Explanation: Aggression can be a behavioral expression of distress or frustration in cognitively impaired individuals. Identifying triggers and employing appropriate interventions is crucial for the safety of the client and others.

D. Agitation

Explanation: Agitation, restlessness, or pacing may be signs of discomfort, anxiety, or frustration in cognitively impaired individuals. Identifying the cause and implementing strategies to reduce agitation are essential aspects of care.

E. Increased confusion

Explanation: A sudden increase in confusion may indicate an underlying issue, such as an infection, medication side effect, or environmental change. Regular assessment of cognitive status helps in detecting changes and addressing them promptly.

F. Decreased passivity

Explanation: Passivity, or a lack of activity or initiative, is not necessarily a specific symptom commonly associated with cognitive impairment. Observing for changes in behavior, mood, and cognitive status is important, but the term "decreased passivity" is not a standard indicator of cognitive impairment. Instead, it's essential to assess for changes in behavior that may indicate distress or unmet needs.