The nurse is taking care of an older female patient who was admitted to the hospital 1 day ago with pneumonia. This illness has impaired her ability to compensate. The nurse should monitor this patient, recognizing that she is at risk for
loss of brain neurons
hypotension
disorientation
sedation
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bowel incontinence
Not a common sign of drug reaction; may relate to neurological or GI dysfunction but is not specific to drug effects.
B. Skin rash
Can occur, but less common in older adults due to reduced immune responsiveness.
C. Kidney failure
A serious outcome, not an early or common sign. Often results from long-term nephrotoxicity rather than an acute adverse reaction.
D. Restlessness
Older adults may exhibit non-specific signs such as restlessness, confusion, agitation, or falls as early indicators of drug toxicity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. 24-hour dietary intake of 75% of meals
This indicates adequate intake and is generally not concerning.
B. 24-hour urinary output of 1450 mL
This is within the normal range for urinary output and does not indicate GI dysfunction.
C. Weight loss of 2 lb since admission 2 months ago
While unintended weight loss in older adults is important, 2 pounds over 2 months is mild and not the most urgent finding.
D. Last bowel movement 4 days ago
Constipation is common but potentially serious in older adults. Not having a bowel movement for 4 days increases the risk for fecal impaction, discomfort, or bowel obstruction, and warrants intervention.
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