You realize that your client's bladder functions are only slightly altered by the physiological changes of age. What might you expect if an older person is experiencing urinary incontinence?

Choice A reason: Overflow incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when the bladder becomes overfilled and cannot empty completely. This causes urine to leak out of the bladder, even when the person does not feel the urge to urinate. A large residual urine volume is a common sign of overflow incontinence, as it indicates that the bladder is not emptying properly.

Choice B reason: Urge incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when the bladder contracts involuntarily and causes a sudden and strong urge to urinate. This can result in urine leakage before the person can reach the toilet. A large residual urine volume is not a typical feature of urge incontinence, as the bladder tends to empty frequently and urgently.

Choice C reason: Stress incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder are weakened or damaged. This causes urine to leak out of the bladder when the person coughs, sneezes, laughs, or exerts pressure on the abdomen. A large residual urine volume is not a common symptom of stress incontinence, as the bladder does not overfill or contract involuntarily.

Choice D reason: Functional incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when the person has normal bladder function but cannot reach the toilet in time due to physical or mental impairments. This can be caused by mobility problems, cognitive decline, dementia, or environmental barriers. A large residual urine volume is not a characteristic of functional incontinence, as the bladder can empty normally when the person has access to the toilet.

Choice A reason: Constipation is the nurse's priority for preventive care, as it is a common and serious side effect of morphine and other opioids, which can slow down the bowel movements and cause hard, dry stools. The nurse would advise the older adult to increase their fiber and fluid intake, use stool softeners or laxatives as prescribed, and report any signs of bowel obstruction, such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or vomiting.

Choice B reason: Poor liquid intake is not the nurse's priority for preventive care, as it is not directly related to the use of morphine, although it can contribute to constipation and dehydration. The nurse would advise the older adult to drink enough fluids, unless they have a fluid restriction, and to monitor their urine output, color, and specific gravity.

Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not the nurse's priority for preventive care, as it is not a common side effect of morphine, although it can occur in some cases due to an allergic reaction, intolerance, or overdose. The nurse would advise the older adult to report any episodes of diarrhea, as it can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or malabsorption.

Choice D reason: Poor solid food intake is not the nurse's priority for preventive care, as it is not directly related to the use of morphine, although it can affect the nutritional status and wound healing of the older adult. The nurse would advise the older adult to eat a balanced diet that meets their caloric and protein needs, and to avoid foods that can cause gas, indigestion, or constipation.