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.).

The correct answer is A.“Do you drive your own car or use public transportation?.” This question is appropriate for the domain ofmode of transportation, which is one of the eight areas of occupational performance assessed by the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) Scale.The scale evaluates a person’s ability to engage in more complex activities thought necessary for functioning in community settings.

Choice B is wrong because it is not related to the domain of mode of transportation, but rather to the domain ofability to use a telephone.The scale asks about the person’s ability to operate a telephone, dial numbers, and answer calls.

Choice C is wrong because it is not related to the domain of mode of transportation, but rather to the domain ofshopping.The scale asks about the person’s ability to take care of all shopping needs independently, shop for small purchases, or need assistance with shopping.

Choice D is wrong because it is not related to the domain of mode of transportation, but rather to the domain ofmobility.The scale does not assess mobility directly, but it may be inferred from the person’s ability to travel by public transportation or car.

The Lawton IADLs Scale has a summary score that ranges from 0 (low function, dependent) to 8 (high function, independent) for women, and 0 to 5 for men.The score identifies areas of need in regard to care and support.

The correct answer is D.

Decreased mental status.Dehydration in elderly people can cause confusion, disorientation, or drowsiness due to the loss of water and electrolytes from the body.

These symptoms can affect the cognitive function and alertness of the client.Dehydration can also lead to complications such as kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances, or low blood pressure.

Choice A is wrong because increased skin turgor is not a sign of dehydration.

Skin turgor is the ability of the skin to return to its normal shape after being pinched or pulled.Dehydration causes decreased skin turgor, meaning the skin stays tented or wrinkled after being pinched.

Choice B is wrong because decreased pulse rate is not a sign of dehydration.Dehydration causes increased pulse rate, as the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the vital organs when there is less fluid in the body.

Choice C is wrong because increased urine output is not a sign of dehydration.Dehydration causes decreased urine output, as the kidneys try to conserve water and produce more concentrated urine.

The urine may also be darker in color than normal.

Normal ranges for fluid intake and output vary depending on age, weight, activity level, and health status.

However, a general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day and produce at least 30 mL of urine per hour.