The nurse teaches an older adult diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and prescribed metoprolol to recognize early clinical indicators of hypoglycemia. Which clinical indicators of hypoglycemia does the nurse include in client teaching as the indicators this man is most likely to detect? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: The classic signs of elevated glucose levels, polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia are rarely present in older adults is true because older adults may have impaired thirst sensation, reduced appetite, or altered renal function that can mask these symptoms. They may also have other chronic conditions or medications that can affect their glucose levels or urine output.

Choice B reason: Older adults tend to metabolize glucose at a faster rate than younger adults is false because older adults usually have a slower metabolism and a reduced insulin sensitivity that can impair their glucose regulation. They may also have less muscle mass and more fat tissue that can affect their glucose utilization.

Choice C reason: Fingerstick glucose monitoring is inaccurate in older adults is false because fingerstick glucose monitoring is a reliable and convenient method to measure blood glucose levels in older adults, as long as they follow the proper technique and calibration. They may also benefit from using devices that have larger displays, voice output, or memory functions.

Choice D reason: There is a higher tolerance for elevated levels of circulating glucose in older adults is false because elevated levels of circulating glucose can cause serious complications in older adults, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, or infections. Older adults may have a higher risk of developing these complications due to their age, comorbidities, or frailty.

Choice A reason: Demonstrating commitment to the special needs of the geriatric client by means of board-certification is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it shows that the nurse has met the standards of knowledge, skills, and practice in the field of gerontology. Board-certification also indicates that the nurse is dedicated to providing quality care and improving outcomes for the older adult population.

Choice B reason: Raising the level of professionalism for the geriatric facility is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a secondary benefit that may result from having certified nurses on staff. Professionalism is not only determined by the credentials of the nurses, but also by their attitudes, behaviors, and values.

Choice C reason: Assuring the basic competency of the geriatric nurse is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a minimum requirement that should be met by all nurses who work with older adults. Competency is not only measured by passing an exam, but also by demonstrating clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning.

Choice D reason: Addressing the current shortage of specialized geriatric nurses is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a challenge that cannot be solved by certifications alone. The shortage of geriatric nurses is influenced by many factors, such as the aging population, the lack of interest and incentives, and the high turnover and burnout rates.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications.