Which statement by the student nurse indicates the need for further education regarding pain management in older adults? (Select all that apply).
“Older adults often fear becoming addicted to pain medications.”.
“Older adults often take numerous drugs which can cause interactions with pain medications.”.
“Confusion and delirium can be a more common reaction to certain pain medications in the elderly.”.
“Older adults tolerate the same dosage as do younger individuals.”.
Correct Answer : D
Older adults do not have a different pain mechanism and do not feel it as much as younger individuals. This statement is false and indicates the need for further education regarding pain management in older adults.
Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
Choice A is true because older adults often fear becoming addicted to pain medications and may underreport or deny their pain.
Choice B is true because older adults often take numerous drugs that can cause interactions with pain medications and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Choice C is true because confusion and delirium can be a more common reaction to certain pain medications in the elderly, especially opioids and benzodiazepines.
Normal ranges for vital signs in older adults are similar to those in younger adults, except for blood pressure, which may be higher due to arterial stiffness. The normal range for blood pressure in older adults is 120/80 to 140/90 mm Hg.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis by reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
However, NSAIDs do not slow down the disease progression or prevent joint
damage. Therefore, they are often used along with other types of medications, such as methotrexate or biologics, that can modify the disease course. NSAIDs may take up to two weeks to reach their full anti-inflammatory effect.
Choice A is wrong because using aspirin to relieve other types of pain can increase the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers when taken with NSAIDs.
Choice C is wrong because taking the medication on an empty stomach can increase the risk of stomach irritation and ulcers.
Choice D is wrong because taking the medication after exercising does not prevent the progression of disease or joint damage.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Illness in one family member can affect the other family members. This is because family-centered nursing care recognizes that the family is the basic unit of society and that each member's health influences the whole family's health. Family-centered nursing care also involves collaborating with the family to provide care that meets their needs, preferences, and values.
Choice A is wrong because the nurse does not provide family-centered nursing care to avoid the client’s loneliness. Loneliness is a psychosocial need, not a physiologic one, and it can be addressed by other means than involving the family.
Choice B is wrong because the client’s compliance with medical instructions is not the primary goal of family-centered nursing care. Compliance is influenced by many factors, such as motivation, education, culture, and trust, and it may not always depend on the family’s involvement.
Choice C is wrong because the family’s willingness to listen to instructions is not the main reason for providing family-centered nursing care. The nurse should respect the family’s autonomy and decision-making, and not impose instructions that may conflict with their beliefs or values.
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