A nurse is caring for an older adult patient in the emergency department who sustained a head injury due to a fall. Which of the following are common causes of head injuries in older adults?
Decreased visual acuity
Motor vehicle crashes
Polypharmacy
Weakness
Chronic hypertension
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Choice A rationale
Decreased visual acuity can increase the risk of falls, which are a common cause of head injuries in older adults. Impaired vision can affect balance and coordination, making it more difficult for an individual to navigate their environment safely.
Choice B rationale
While motor vehicle crashes can certainly lead to head injuries, they are not one of the most common causes of head injuries in older adults. Falls are actually the leading cause of head injuries in this population.
Choice C rationale
Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications by a patient, is common in older adults and can increase the risk of falls and, consequently, head injuries. Certain medications can cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion, which can lead to falls.
Choice D rationale
Weakness, particularly in the lower body, can increase the risk of falls and subsequent head injuries in older adults. Lower body weakness can affect an individual’s balance and mobility, making falls more likely.
Choice E rationale
Chronic hypertension can lead to a variety of health complications, including an increased risk of falls and head injuries. Hypertension can cause dizziness and balance problems, which can increase the risk of falls.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Patients with poorly controlled diabetes, such as those experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), are at an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can damage peripheral nerves over time.
Choice B rationale
Sleep apnea is not typically associated with an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
Choice C rationale
While hypertension can lead to a variety of health complications, it is not typically associated with an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
Choice D rationale
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect the nervous system, including the peripheral nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy.
Choice E rationale
Untreated tuberculosis is not typically associated with an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
Choice F rationale
Chronic alcohol use can lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly of the B vitamins, which are essential for nerve health. This can result in peripheral neuropathy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While a stiff neck can be a symptom of a cerebral aneurysm, it is not a definitive sign. A stiff neck is more commonly associated with conditions like meningitis.
Choice B rationale
Most cerebral aneurysms do not cause symptoms until they rupture or become very large. Therefore, a person with a cerebral aneurysm typically will have no symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Seizures can occur if a cerebral aneurysm ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain. However, seizures are not a common symptom of unruptured cerebral aneurysms.
Choice D rationale
Nausea and vomiting can occur if a cerebral aneurysm ruptures and causes a sudden increase in intracranial pressure. However, these are not typical symptoms of an unruptured cerebral aneurysm.
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