During an interview, the nurse notes that an older patient is having mild difficulty with some words and forgets the names of people. The patient is alert, oriented to time, person, and place, and makes appropriate responses
What does the nurse determine this patient's cognitive changes to mean? 1. Normal signs of aging
2. Early symptoms of dementia
3. Indicators of depression in the elderly
4. Memory impairment that may be related to cerebral ischemia
1
Rationale: Cognitive changes vary widely in the elderly; however, older people will not suffer significant memory impairment. Many may experience mild problems with word finding and remembering names. The changes observed in this patient are normal signs of aging.
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The patient asks the nurse how most people can afford medical insurance. The nurse explains many people get medical insurance from what source?
1. The primary care physician 2. The local clinic 3. Social security office 4. The employer
The nurse is completing education for a patient receiving Novantrone (mitoxantrone) for treatment of leukemia. The nurse teaches the patient that he or she may experience which signs or symptoms?
a. Low blood pressure b. Stomatitis c. Numbness d. Increased appetite
A patient is complaining of a fever and a "stiff neck." Upon assessment, the patient is unable to rotate the neck. The nurse would conduct additional assessment for which condition?
1. Gout 2. Cervical vertebrae fracture 3. Infectious process 4. Arthritis
A nurse applies the ethical principle of non-maleficence when:
a. Administering medications using the "five rights" b. Allowing clients to be active participants in their care c. Providing patient privacy when delivering care d. Referring a client to a physical therapist