A nurse is caring for an older patient in the emergency department. What information about the patient will be most helpful in creating a plan of care?

A. Older women are statistically more likely to live in poverty compared to older men. This is often due to a combination of factors including lower lifetime earnings, career interruptions for caregiving, and less access to pension benefits.
B. Older women are indeed more likely to suffer from multiple chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis. Chronic conditions are common in this age group and can significantly impact quality of life. Community programming should include education and resources related to managing chronic diseases, as well as access to preventive care and support services.
C. Older women are more likely to live alone compared to older men. This may be due to longer life expectancy and higher rates of widowhood among women. Programs should address the needs of those living alone, such as social support, community engagement opportunities, and services that mitigate isolation, like social activities or check-in services.
D. Many older women are caregivers for their spouses or other family members. This caregiving role can be physically and emotionally demanding. Community programs should offer support for caregivers, including respite care, counseling services, and caregiver education to help manage stress and prevent burnout.
E. While this can occur, older women are less likely to live with extended families compared to living alone. Living arrangements vary widely, and while some older women may live with extended families, it is not as prevalent as living alone. Community programming should be adaptable to different living situations but may focus more on the needs of those living alone or as caregivers.

A. While this information can be helpful in understanding the patient's social context, it does not directly contribute to the development of a plan of care.
B. This information is important for understanding the patient's medical history and identifying any potential risk factors. However, a baseline assessment of physical and cognitive functioning is also essential for developing a comprehensive plan of care.
C. This assessment can be helpful in evaluating the patient's cognitive function, but it does not provide a complete picture of their overall physical and functional status.
D. When caring for an older adult in the emergency department, it is crucial to have a baseline understanding of their physical and cognitive functioning. This information will help the nurse assess the patient's current condition and identify any significant changes that may require intervention.