When showering a patient, which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure patient safety?

A. With aging, the tympanic membranes (eardrums) typically become thinner and less flexible, which can affect hearing. Therefore, this choice does not reflect the physiological changes that occur.
B. One of the most common changes in hearing as people age is presbycusis, which often leads to a decreased ability to hear high-frequency sounds. This loss can significantly impact communication and quality of life for older adults.
C. Tinnitus, which is the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears, often does not decrease with age. In fact, many older adults experience increased tinnitus or persistent tinnitus due to age-related hearing loss or other factors, making this choice incorrect.
D. This is not typically accurate. Older adults often have an increased build-up of ear wax (cerumen) due to changes in ear canal structure and gland function. This can lead to blockages that affect hearing, so this choice does not represent a physiological change commonly observed in older adults.

A. Peripheral neuropathy typically results in a decreased ability to detect temperature changes due to nerve damage. Clients often experience reduced sensation or may not feel temperature variations accurately.
B. This is a common symptom of peripheral neuropathy. Many clients report a burning, tingling, or "pins and needles" sensation in their feet. This phenomenon is often associated with nerve damage, especially in conditions like diabetes.
C. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to diminished or altered sensation, including the inability to sense pressure accurately. Clients may not feel pressure on their feet, which increases the risk of injuries and ulcers.
D. Hyperreflexia refers to increased reflex responses, which may occur with upper motor neuron lesions or central nervous system issues, not peripheral nerve damage. Peripheral neuropathy usually results in diminished reflexes or areflexia.