A frail older patient is more at risk for poor treatment outcomes in an acute care setting due to what factors? Select all that apply.

Question

1. Increased incidence of nosocomial infections
2. Increased risk of adverse outcomes from therapeutic interventions
3. A diagnosis of vague symptoms and problems
4. Acute illness and diagnosed chronic illnesses
5. Cognitive impairments

Answer 1

1. Increased incidence of nosocomial infections
2. Increased risk of adverse outcomes from therapeutic interventions
5. Cognitive impairments

Explanation: 1. Nosocomial infections are considered complications of hospitalizations and can contribute to poor treatment outcomes in a frail older patient.
2. Careful monitoring of the older person's status and effectiveness of the overall plan of care is indicated because frail older adults with poor function are at increased risk of iatrogenesis or adverse outcomes of therapeutic interventions.
3. Diagnoses of vague symptoms and problems do not place the frail older patient at risk for poor treatment outcomes.
4. Assessment of the effects of acute illness on diagnosed chronic illnesses does not place the frail older patient at risk for poor treatment outcomes.
5. Older adults with cognitive impairment cannot adequately report symptoms of acute or chronic illness.