When an older female adult client complains of itching and pain and several days later shows you a rash, what do you realize she has?

Choice A reason: Skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage is true because as the skin ages, it loses its elasticity and ability to repair itself from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun damage can cause wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. The nurse would advise the older adult person to protect their skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and clothing that covers the skin.

Choice B reason: Sweat gland activity increases is false because as the skin ages, it produces less sweat and oil, which can make the skin dry and prone to itching. The nurse would advise the older adult person to moisturize their skin regularly and avoid hot showers or baths that can dry out the skin.

Choice C reason: Skin becomes darker in unexposed areas is false because as the skin ages, it produces less melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color. This can make the skin lighter and more sensitive to sunburn. The nurse would advise the older adult person to check their skin for any changes in color, shape, or size of moles or spots that could indicate skin cancer.

Choice D reason: Generous amounts of soap should be used for cleansing is false because as the skin ages, it becomes thinner and more fragile, and can be irritated by harsh chemicals or fragrances. The nurse would advise the older adult person to use mild, unscented soap and water for cleansing, and to pat the skin dry gently.

Choice A reason: Performing all activities of daily living (ADLs) and then resting is not a good instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and anxiety. The nurse would advise the older adult to pace themselves and prioritize the most important activities, and to take breaks between tasks.

Choice B reason: Bathing and eating slowly with periodic rest is a good instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can help conserve energy, prevent dyspnea, and improve digestion. The nurse would advise the older adult to use a shower chair or a handheld showerhead, to avoid hot water or steam, and to use a fan or an open window for ventilation. The nurse would also advise the older adult to eat small, frequent meals, to avoid foods that cause gas or bloating, and to drink fluids between meals rather than with them.

Choice C reason: Walking short distances without oxygen is not a safe instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause hypoxia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood. The nurse would advise the older adult to use oxygen therapy as prescribed by their doctor, and to monitor their oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter. The nurse would also advise the older adult to exercise regularly, but to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration, and to stop if they feel dizzy, chest pain, or severe breathlessness.

Choice D reason: Bathing right after eating and then resting is not a helpful instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause indigestion, reflux, or aspiration. The nurse would advise the older adult to wait at least an hour after eating before bathing, and to avoid lying down right after eating or bathing. The nurse would also advise the older adult to elevate their head with pillows when resting or sleeping, and to avoid napping during the day.