Which of the following statements is true about dysarthria?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because 120/80 mm Hg is a normal blood pressure, not a high risk factor for diabetes mellitus. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common complication of diabetes mellitus, as it can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, having a normal blood pressure does not rule out the possibility of having diabetes mellitus, as other factors, such as blood sugar level, family history, or lifestyle, can also influence the risk.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because total cholesterol 198 mg/dL is a borderline high cholesterol level, not a high risk factor for diabetes mellitus. High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, is a common complication of diabetes mellitus, as it can affect the metabolism of fats and increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. However, having a borderline high cholesterol level does not confirm the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, as other factors, such as blood sugar level, family history, or lifestyle, can also influence the risk.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because palpable peripheral pulses are a normal finding, not a high risk factor for diabetes mellitus. Peripheral pulses are the pulsations of the arteries that can be felt in the extremities, such as the wrists or ankles. Palpable peripheral pulses indicate that the blood flow to the extremities is adequate and not compromised by diabetes mellitus. However, having palpable peripheral pulses does not rule out the possibility of having diabetes mellitus, as other factors, such as blood sugar level, family history, or lifestyle, can also influence the risk.

Choice D reason: This is correct because 68 years of age is a high risk factor for diabetes mellitus. Age is one of the non-modifiable risk factors for diabetes mellitus, as the risk increases with advancing age. This is because aging can affect the insulin production and sensitivity, as well as the body composition and function. Older adults are more likely to have diabetes mellitus than younger adults, especially if they have other risk factors, such as obesity, family history, or sedentary lifestyle. Therefore, 68 years of age is a high risk factor for diabetes mellitus.

Choice A reason: Over-the-counter NSAIDs are generally harmless is not a true statement, as NSAIDs can cause serious adverse effects in older adults, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, hypertension, and heart failure. NSAIDs should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.

Choice B reason: Stool softeners and laxatives should be used with opioids is a true statement, as opioids can cause constipation in older adults, which can lead to discomfort, abdominal pain, fecal impaction, and bowel obstruction. Stool softeners and laxatives can help prevent and treat constipation and promote regular bowel movements.

Choice C reason: Opioids are less effective in older clients than in younger clients is not a true statement, as opioids can have the same or even greater analgesic effect in older adults, depending on the dose, route, and duration of administration. However, opioids can also cause more side effects in older adults, such as sedation, confusion, respiratory depression, and falls. Opioids should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.

Choice D reason: The dose limit for acetaminophen is difficult to reach for older adults is not a true statement, as older adults may be more susceptible to acetaminophen toxicity, especially if they have liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic alcohol use. The dose limit for acetaminophen is 4 grams per day for adults, but it may be lower for older adults or those with risk factors. Acetaminophen should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.