When caring for an elderly client, the nurse should plan interventions based on the understanding that the elderly often
a. are frequently confused on admission.
b. are particularly at risk for confusion in the hospital.
c. do not seem bothered by changes in routines.
d. have an intact recent memory.
A
It is a common misconception that the elderly naturally undergo a marked deterioration in mental function as they age. Remote memory may well be intact, but often the elderly have trouble remembering new information. The elderly rely heavily on familiar landmarks and established routines as cues to help them maintain independence. Admission to the hospital removes this assistance and this contributes to their vulnerability to confusion.
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A Native American patient arrives at the clinic for treatment related to type 2 diabetes
Which of the following would best provide the nurse with information about the role food plays in the patient's cultural practice and identify how the patient's food preferences could be related to the patient's problem? A) "Do you feel any of your cultural practices have a negative impact on your disease process?" B) "What types of foods are served as a part of your cultural practices and how they are prepared?" C) "As a non-native, I am unaware of your cultural practices. Could you teach me a few practices that may affect your care?" D) "Tell me about foods that are important to your cultural practices and how you feel they relate to your diabetes."
The nurse documents that a client's patellar reflex is a +4. This means the reflex is:
a. absent. b. present but diminished. c. normal. d. hyperactive with possible clonus.
A client with no history of heart disease is seen in the clinic for periodic episodes of tachycardia with a regular rate. When taking the nursing history, the nurse would question the client about the existence of
a. asthma. b. diabetes. c. stress. d. weight gain.
Which of the following clients is most likely to benefit from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?
A) A client with bipolar disorder who is not compliant with the blood testing necessary for lithium therapy B) A man with a diagnosis of bipolar II disorder who has recently begun experiencing a manic episode C) A woman whose major depression has not responded appreciably to antidepressants D) A client whose recent strange behavior has been attributed to cyclothymic disorder