A 90-year-old female patient is scheduled to undergo a partial mastectomy for the treatment of breast cancer. What nursing diagnosis should the nurse prioritize when planning this patient's postoperative care?
A) Risk for Delayed Growth and Development related to prolonged hospitalization
B) Risk for Decisional Conflict related to discharge planning
C) Risk for Impaired Memory related to old age
D) Risk for Infection related to reduced immune function
Ans: D
Feedback:
The lessened physiological reserve of older adults results in an increased risk for infection postoperatively. This physiological consideration is a priority over psychosocial considerations, which may or may not be applicable. Impaired memory is always attributed to a pathophysiological etiology, not advanced age.
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