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 ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
A. Decreased resting cardiac output
Cardiac output decreases due to reduced myocardial efficiency and heart muscle compliance.
B. Increased risk for heart attack
Atherosclerosis and vascular stiffness raise the risk of myocardial infarction.
C. Increased blood pressure
Arterial stiffness and decreased elasticity lead to increased systolic blood pressure.
D. Increased coronary blood flow
Blood flow may actually decrease due to narrowing of coronary arteries.
E. Decreased rigidity of the heart
Aging causes the heart muscle to increase in rigidity (i.e., become stiffer), not decrease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Medical diagnosis
Important, but does not reflect the individual's day-to-day abilities and care needs.
B. Activities of daily living (ADLs)
ADLs are part of a functional assessment but not comprehensive alone.
C. Community resources
Help support care but are not the primary basis for determining care needs.
D. Functional assessment
Evaluates the older adult's ability to perform ADLs and instrumental ADLs, guiding personalized care planning.
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