The nurse is caring for an elderly patient with Alzheimer's disease who is ambulatory but requires total assistance with his activities of daily living (ADLs). The nurse notices that his skin is dry and wrinkled. The nurse should
a. Make sure that the patient is receiving daily baths.
b. Reduce the number of baths per week if possible.
c. Be aware that sweat glands become more active with aging.
d. Be sure that the patient is using soap with his bath.
ANS: B
Decreasing the number of baths per week may help prevent further drying of the skin. As people age, the skin loses its resiliency and moisture, and sebaceous and sweat glands become less active. Daily bathing as well as bathing with water that is too hot or soap that is harsh causes the skin to become excessively dry.
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