Which assessment is the greatest priority to report when considering the gastrointestinal (GI) changes that take place in the geriatric patient?
24-hour dietary intake of 75% of meals
24-hour urinary output of 1450 mL
Weight loss of 2 lb since admission 2 months ago
Last bowel movement 4 days ago
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Encourage the patient to talk to the primary care physician about the problem
While involving the PCP is helpful, the nurse can provide direct, effective care and education first.
B. Establishing a medication regimen to control the discomfort
Medication may be necessary in severe cases, but non-pharmacologic measures like moisturizing are safer and often more effective initially.
C. Encourage the patient to take a tepid bath and use moisturizers
Tepid baths prevent skin dryness, and applying moisturizers helps restore the skin barrier, relieving pruritus.
D. Teach the patient that pruritus is an expected consequence of aging
While more common with aging, pruritus should not be dismissed; it is treatable and can significantly affect quality of life.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Long-term memory
Generally stable, but not increased with age; may decline with pathology.
B. Functional ability of brain cells
Decreases with age due to neuron loss and slower neurotransmission.
C. Loss of neurons (brain cells)
There is a natural increase in the loss of brain cells with age.
D. Calcification of coronary arteries
This increases with age and contributes to cardiovascular disease risk.
E. Vital capacity
Decreases with age due to reduced lung compliance and muscle strength.
F. Conduction speed associated with synaptic transmission
Slows with age due to degenerative neural changes; it does not increase.
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