Which neurologic finding would be considered abnormal in an 88-year-old patient?
Dizziness and problems with balance
Slow papillary response to light
Jerky eye movements
Absence of the Achilles tendon jerk
The Correct Answer is D
A. Dizziness and problems with balance
While dizziness and problems with balance can occur more frequently in older adults due to age-related changes in the vestibular system and other factors, persistent or severe dizziness or balance issues should be evaluated further as they could indicate underlying neurological or medical conditions.
B. Slow papillary response to light
This finding may be considered abnormal, especially if it represents a significant change from the individual's baseline. While age-related changes in pupil function can occur, a slow or sluggish pupillary response to light may indicate dysfunction of the oculomotor nerve or other neurological issues and should be investigated further.
C. Jerky eye movements
Jerky eye movements, such as nystagmus, can be abnormal and may indicate dysfunction of the vestibular system or other neurological conditions. While some degree of nystagmus can occur with age, persistent or severe jerky eye movements should be evaluated further.
D. Absence of the Achilles tendon jerk
This finding may also be considered abnormal. The Achilles tendon reflex, tested using the deep tendon reflex (DTR) examination, can diminish with age but should not be completely absent in the absence of specific medical conditions affecting the reflex arc or spinal cord function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. B6 (Pyridoxine):
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is known to reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa. It competes with levodopa for absorption in the gastrointestinal tract and can decrease the amount of levodopa that reaches the brain, thereby diminishing its effectiveness in treating Parkinson's disease symptoms.
B. A (Retinol):
Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is not typically associated with reducing the therapeutic effects of levodopa. Vitamin A plays important roles in vision, immune function, and cellular communication, but it does not interact with levodopa in a way that affects its therapeutic efficacy.
C. E (Alpha-Tocopherol):
Vitamin E, also known as alpha-tocopherol, is an antioxidant that plays a role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. While vitamin E supplementation is sometimes used in Parkinson's disease management for its potential neuroprotective effects, it is not known to reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa.
D. K (Phylloquinone):
Vitamin K, also known as phylloquinone, is primarily involved in blood clotting and bone metabolism. It does not interact with levodopa in a way that reduces its therapeutic effects.
E. C (Ascorbic Acid):
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is not known to reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa. While vitamin C has various roles in the body, including antioxidant activity and immune function support, it does not interfere with levodopa absorption or efficacy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Diarrhea:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of phenytoin. While gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation may occur, diarrhea is less common. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
B. Wrist pain:
Wrist pain is not a common side effect of phenytoin. Side effects related to musculoskeletal issues such as joint pain, muscle weakness, or muscle twitching can occur, but wrist pain specifically is not commonly associated with phenytoin use. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
C. Skin rash:
Skin rash is a potential adverse effect of phenytoin that should be monitored and reported. Phenytoin can cause various skin reactions, including a mild rash or more severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to promptly report any signs of skin rash or other skin changes.
D. Metallic taste:
Metallic taste is a common side effect of phenytoin. While it is not usually a serious adverse effect, it can be bothersome for some individuals. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to monitor for this side effect and report it if it occurs persistently or becomes bothersome.
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