Which finding is of highest priority when the nurse is planning care for a 77-year-old patient seen in the outpatient clinic?

a. Symmetric joint swelling of fingers
b. Decreased right knee range of motion
c. Report of left hip aching when jogging
d. History of recent loss of balance and fall


ANS: D
A history of falls requires further assessment and development of fall prevention strategies. The other changes are more typical of bone and joint changes associated with normal aging.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

The nurse can place an older adult into one of four patient rooms. Which is the most suitable room for an older adult?

a. Brightly lit, blue room with cozy throw rugs b. Room with orange carpeting and soft lighting c. Brightly lit, blue room with waxed vinyl floors d. Room for television and children's play-time

Nursing

The nursing supervisor informs the staff that if they refuse to stay on the nursing unit and work an additional 8-hour shift, they will be reported to the state for patient abandonment. This type of power is known as:

a. coercive. b. expert. c. legitimate. d. reward.

Nursing

The act of walking is:

a. Trochanter b. Ambulation c. Orthosis d. Range of motion

Nursing

Which instructions should the nurse include in the teaching for a client prescribed aspirin (ASA)?

A. Take the aspirin with a glass of milk. B. Discontinue taking the aspirin if you experience stomach upset. C. Take the aspirin with orange juice in the morning. D. Take the aspirin on an empty stomach in the morning.

Nursing