The nurse is caring for an elderly patient who has been admitted with pneumonia.
The nurse knows that elderly patients are at increased risk for respiratory infections because of which of the following factors?
(Select all that apply.).
Decreased immune response
Decreased chest wall compliance
Decreased alveolar surface area.
Decreased oxygen saturation.
Decreased bronchial dilation.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
The correct answer is A, B and C.
These are the factors that increase the risk of respiratory infections in elderly patients:.
• Decreased immune response: Elderly patients have a weaker immune system that makes them more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. They also have a poor response to respiratory vaccines.
• Decreased chest wall compliance: Elderly patients have reduced elasticity of the lungs and chest wall, which makes it harder for them to breathe and expel mucus.
• Decreased alveolar surface area: Elderly patients have fewer and larger alveoli, which reduces the gas exchange area and oxygen diffusion capacity.
Choice D is wrong because decreased oxygen saturation is not a risk factor, but a consequence of respiratory infections.
Choice E is wrong because decreased bronchial dilation is not a specific factor for elderly patients, but a common feature of obstructive lung diseases.
Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95-100% and for bronchial dilation are variable depending on the type and severity of the disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer isA, B, C, and E.
The nurse should ask the client about medications, vision problems, home environment, and urinary incontinence as these are all factors that could contribute to falls in older adults.
• Medicationscan increase the risk of falls because they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or low blood pressure.Some medications that can increase the risk of falls include sedatives, antidepressants, antihypertensives, diuretics, and anticholinergics.
• Vision problemscan impair the ability to see obstacles, judge depth and distance, or adjust to changes in light.Some vision problems that can increase the risk of falls include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
• Home environmentcan pose safety hazards that can cause tripping, slipping, or losing balance.Some home hazards that can increase the risk of falls include loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, slippery floors, uneven surfaces, and lack of handrails or grab bars.
• Urinary incontinencecan lead to rushed movements to the bathroom or frequent nighttime trips that can increase the risk of falls.Urinary incontinence can be caused by various factors such as bladder infections, prostate problems, pelvic floor weakness, or medication side effects.
Choice D is wrong because thyroid function is not a direct factor that contributes to falls in older adults.However, thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can affect other factors such as muscle strength, bone density, heart rate, or blood pressure that can indirectly increase the risk of falls.
Normal ranges for thyroid function tests vary depending on the laboratory and the method used.However, a common reference range for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L and for free thyroxine (FT4) is 0.8 to 1.8 ng/dL.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is B.
Older adults may experience changes in sexual response or function due to physiological factors.This is because aging can affect the sex organs, hormones, blood flow, and nerve signals that are involved in sexual arousal and performance.These changes do not mean that older adults cannot enjoy a satisfying sex life, but they may require some adjustments or treatments to overcome any difficulties.
Choice A is wrong because older adults have the same need for intimacy and affection as younger adults, and sexuality is an important component of emotional and physical intimacy that can enhance well-being and quality of life.
Choice C is wrong because older adults with chronic diseases or disabilities can still have sexual activity, as long as they are comfortable and safe.They may need to consult with their health care providers about any precautions or modifications they should make to accommodate their conditions.
Choice D is wrong because older adults are not at lower risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) than younger adults.In fact, older adults may be more vulnerable to STIs due to lower immune function, thinner vaginal tissues, lack of condom use, and other factors.
Therefore, older adults should practice safe sex and get tested regularly for STIs.
Normal ranges for sexual response or function vary widely depending on the individual, the partner, the situation, and other factors.
There is no one standard or ideal way to experience sexuality and intimacy in older adulthood.The most important thing is to communicate openly with one’s partner and health care provider about any concerns or preferences, and to seek help if needed.
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