A nurse is caring for a client with asthma. Which of the following statements are true regarding physiological changes of the respiratory system in the aging adult client?
Dyspnea is not commonly seen in other chronic conditions of the aging older adult.
Aging is associated with decreased sensitivity to medications.
Adverse reactions to medications in the aging older adult are lower.
Physiological changes in the respiratory system can mimic the presence of airway obstruction.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Dyspnea is not commonly seen in other chronic conditions of the aging older adult: This statement is incorrect. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, can occur in various chronic conditions commonly seen in aging adults, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, and pulmonary fibrosis, among others. Dyspnea can be a symptom of respiratory or cardiovascular issues and is not exclusive to asthma.
Choice B Reason:
Aging is associated with decreased sensitivity to medications: This statement is generally incorrect. Aging can affect drug metabolism and clearance, leading to changes in medication sensitivity. Older adults may have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, which can increase their sensitivity to certain medications, particularly those with sedative or CNS depressant effects. This increased sensitivity can potentially increase the risk of adverse drug reactions.
Choice C Reason:
Adverse reactions to medications in the aging older adult are lower: This statement is incorrect. While some physiological changes associated with aging may decrease the risk of adverse drug reactions, such as decreased renal function and altered drug metabolism, older adults are still at risk for adverse drug reactions due to factors such as polypharmacy, drug interactions, and increased sensitivity to medications.
Choice D Reason:
Physiological changes in the respiratory system can mimic the presence of airway obstruction: This statement is true. Physiological changes in the aging respiratory system, such as decreased lung elasticity, increased chest wall stiffness, and reduced respiratory muscle strength, can mimic the symptoms of airway obstruction seen in conditions like asthma or COPD. These changes can lead to decreased lung function, reduced exercise tolerance, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Myelogram is not appropriate. This imaging test involves injecting contrast dye into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots. While it may help identify certain spinal cord abnormalities, it is not typically used as a primary diagnostic tool for multiple sclerosis.
Choice B Reason:
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is not appropriate. This blood test measures the level of BNP, a hormone produced by the heart, which can be elevated in conditions such as heart failure. It is not used in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Choice C Reason:
Troponin level is not appropriate. Troponin is a protein released into the bloodstream during a heart attack or other heart-related conditions. This test is used to diagnose heart muscle damage and is not relevant to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Choice D Reason:
Lumbar puncture is appropriate. Also known as a spinal tap, a lumbar puncture involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the spinal canal for analysis. In the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, analysis of CSF can help identify certain abnormalities, such as an elevated level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) or the presence of oligoclonal bands, which are often indicative of inflammation in the central nervous system. Therefore, a lumbar puncture is commonly ordered to assist with the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Keeping lights turned to medium level in the evening is incorrect. This intervention is aimed at reducing environmental stimuli, which may be appropriate for some patients with neurological conditions to minimize sensory overload and promote rest. However, it is not a specific intervention for preventing cerebral aneurysm rupture.
Choice B Reason:
Maintaining the head of the bed between 30 and 45° is correct. Keeping the head of the bed elevated can help reduce intracranial pressure and decrease the risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture or rebleeding in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. This position promotes venous drainage from the brain and helps prevent increases in intracranial pressure.
Choice C Reason:
Administering hypotonic intravenous solutions is incorrect. Hypotonic intravenous solutions have a lower osmolarity than blood plasma and can lead to cerebral edema, which may exacerbate intracranial pressure and increase the risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture. Isotonic solutions, such as normal saline (0.9% NaCl) or lactated Ringer's solution, are typically preferred for fluid resuscitation and maintenance in patients at risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture.
Choice D Reason:
Reposition the client every shift is incorrect. Repositioning the client every shift helps prevent complications associated with immobility, such as pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and venous thromboembolism. While important for overall patient care, repositioning alone does not directly address the risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture.
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