A nurse is collecting data from an older client for signs of dehydration. Which of the following findings should the nurse consider an expected part of the aging process?
Elevation of urine specific gravity
Dry oral mucus membranes
Poor skin turgor over the sternum
Decreased creatine clearance
The Correct Answer is D
A. Elevation of urine specific gravity
This may indicate concentration of urine due to dehydration but is not an expected age-related change.
B. Dry oral mucus membranes
Could suggest dehydration but not an expected normal change; should be evaluated.
C. Poor skin turgor over the sternum
Skin elasticity declines with age, but this makes turgor a less reliable indicator, not necessarily a normal sign of dehydration.
D. Decreased creatinine clearance
Normal with aging due to reduced renal function, even if serum creatinine appears normal due to lower muscle mass.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Obtain an order from the primary caregiver for a sedative
Not appropriate as a first step; sedatives in the elderly increase the risk of falls and confusion and should only be used after thorough evaluation.
B. Ask the patient if he is sleeping well at night
This helps identify underlying sleep disturbances, such as nocturia or insomnia, which may be the cause of daytime fatigue.
C. Tell the patient that he cannot take any more naps
Restricting naps without assessing the cause of tiredness is inappropriate and may worsen fatigue.
D. Plan activities to keep the patient awake during the day
May be helpful after assessing nighttime sleep habits and determining the cause of daytime drowsiness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Loss of brain neurons: This is a chronic, age-related process, not an acute change due to pneumonia.
B. Hypotension: While possible, it’s not the most common acute manifestation related to aging and infection.
C. Disorientation: Older adults often present with confusion or disorientation (delirium) as a sign of infection due to decreased physiologic reserves.
D. Sedation: Unless medications are involved, sedation isn’t an expected direct result of pneumonia or aging.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.