314 Flashcards
1
Q
What perspective did older adults have historically in the United States?
A
Historically older adults were viewed with prejudice whereas today they are viewed with positivism knowledge and concern.
2
Q
How was aging viewed in the time of Confucius?
A
“There was a direct correlation between a person’s age and the degree of respect to which he or she was entitled.”
3
Q
What did the early Egyptians do to maintain their youth?
A
They experimented with a variety of potions and schemes.
4
Q
What were Aristotle’s views on older adults’ roles in governance?
A
Aristotle denied older people any role in governmental matters.
5
Q
What does the Bible express concerning older adults?
A
“God’s concern for the well-being of the family and the desire for people to respect elders as stated in ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ (Exodus 20:12).”
6
Q
What rise in attitudes towards older adults occurred during medieval times?
A
Medieval times gave rise to strong feelings regarding the superiority of youth leading to uprisings of sons against fathers.
7
Q
What legislation in England provided care for older persons without family resources?
A
The Poor Laws developed in the early 17th century.
8
Q
What significant demographic trend is mentioned regarding life expectancy?
A
Average life expectancy has increased from 47 years in 1900 to 77.8 years in 2004.
9
Q
What will the percent of the U.S. population over 65 be by 2030?
A
It is projected to be 20 million in 2010 (6.8% of total) and to 33 million in 2030 (9.2%).
10
Q
What are the leading causes of death for older persons?
A
- Heart conditions 2. Malignant neoplasms 3. CVDs (Cardiovascular diseases).
11
Q
What impact is anticipated from the aging baby boomers?
A
They are referred to as a demographic tidal wave impacting the growth of the older population.
12
Q
What percentage of older adults report a chronic disability?
A
20% of adults aged 65 and older report a chronic disability.
13
Q
What is the significance of ‘Gerontology’?
A
Gerontology is the scientific study of the process of aging and the problems of aged persons including biological sociological psychological and economic aspects.
14
Q
What percentage of older adults report a chronic disability?
A
20% of adults aged 65 and older report a chronic disability.
15
Q
What does ‘Ageism’ refer to?
A
Ageism is the emotional prejudice against older adults defined as dislike of aging and older adults.
16
Q
Define ‘Senescence’.
A
Senescence is defined as a change in the behavior of an organism with age leading to a decreased power of survival and adjustment.
17
Q
What is the primary goal of gerontological nursing?
A
The primary goal is to assess plan implement and evaluate healthcare services for older adults.
18
Q
When was the first geriatric article published in the American Journal of Nursing?
A
The first geriatric article was published in 1902.
19
Q
What are the requirements to be a Gerontologic Nurse?
A
- Hold an active registered nurse license in the US or its territories 2. Hold a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing 3. Have practiced 2000 hours within the past 3 years 4. Have had 30 contact hours of continuing education related to gerontology.
20
Q
What constitutes chronic diseases among older adults?
A
Chronic diseases such as heart disease cancer stroke Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes (DM) are major causes of disability.
21
Q
What improvements have contributed to the decline in limitations to activity among older adults?
A
Improved nutrition decreased smoking increased exercise and early detection and treatment of risk factors.
22
Q
What does ‘Geriatrics’ refer to?
A
Geriatrics is a branch of medicine that deals with the diseases and problems of old age.
23
Q
What are the roles of a Gerontological Nurse?
A
Provider of care Teacher/Educator Manager Advocate and Research Consumer.
24
Q
What is the impact of improved sanitation on the aging population?
A
Improved sanitation has contributed to increased life expectancy and the growth of the aging population.
25
What is the average life expectancy of women and men in the United States?
The average life expectancy of women is 81 years and for men it is 75.2 years.
26
What does evidence-based practice improve in nursing care?
Evidence-based practice improves the quality of patient care across all settings.
27
What demographic trend is expected to happen by the mid-21st century?
Old people will outnumber young people for the first time in history.
28
What major factors influence the increase in the older adult population?
Improved sanitation advances in medical care and implementation of preventive health services.
29
What are the recommended actions for nurses to enhance their practice?
- Read professional journals specific to their specialty
- Continue their education by attending seminars and workshops
- Participate in professional organizations
- Pursue additional formal education or degrees
- Obtain certification
30
What percentage of seniors report having good to excellent health?
72% of seniors report having good to excellent health.
31
What does the aging statistic '1 out of every 5578 people was 100 years old or older' indicate?
This statistic indicates the rarity of the centenarian population.
32
What is the main challenge for nurses regarding aging populations?
To promote positive lifelong health behaviors among all populations due to the impact of unhealthy behaviors and choices.
33
What is the purpose of nursing theory in practice?
Nursing theory defines practice integrates knowledge explains relationships among phenomena leads to predictions and provides understanding while being holistic and considering individual differences.
34
What factors impact older adults' perceptions and choices about their health care needs?
Cultural spiritual regional socioeconomic educational environmental factors and health status.
35
Why is there limited work identifying nursing-specific aging theories?
Because aging is a distinct discipline that requires an interdisciplinary perspective.
36
What do psychosocial theories of aging attempt to explain?
They attempt to explain aging in terms of behavior personality and attitude changes.
37
What does the Activity Theory propose?
Proposed by Havighurst and Albrecht in 1953 it suggests that remaining occupied and involved is necessary to satisfy late life.
38
What is the Disengagement Theory?
Proposed by Cumming and Henry in 1961 it suggests that gradual withdrawal from society and relationships serves to maintain social equilibrium and promote internal reflection.
39
What is the Subculture Theory of aging?
Proposed by Rose in 1965 it posits that the elderly prefer to segregate from society in an aging subculture sharing loss of status and societal negativity regarding the aged.
40
What does the Continuity Theory state?
Proposed by Havighurst in 1960 it states that personality influences role and life satisfaction remaining consistent throughout life.
41
What is the Age Stratification Theory?
Developed by Riley in 1960 it states that society is stratified by age groups which are the basis for acquiring resources roles status and deference from others.
42
What does the Person-Environment Fit Theory explain?
Developed by Lawton in 1982 it states that function is affected by ego strength mobility health cognition sensory perception and the environment.
43
What are biological theories of aging focused on?
They explain the physiological processes that change with aging.
44
What do stochastic theories of aging propose?
They are based on random events that cause cellular damage accumulating as the organism ages.
45
What are biological theories of aging focused on?
They explain the physiological processes that change with aging.
## Footnote
46
What is the Free Radical Theory?
It states that membranes nucleic acids and proteins are damaged by free radicals causing cellular injury.
## Footnote
47
What strategies can help reduce oxidative stress in aging?
Decreasing calories to lower weight maintaining a nutrient-rich diet with antioxidants avoiding inflammation and minimizing metal accumulation that triggers free radical reactions.
## Footnote
48
What is the Orgel Error Theory?
It explains that errors in DNA and RNA synthesis occur with aging.
## Footnote
49
What does the Wear and Tear Theory suggest about aging?
It suggests that cells wear out and cannot function effectively as the organism ages.
## Footnote
50
What is the Connective Tissue Theory?
It posits that with aging proteins impede metabolic processes causing issues with nutrient delivery and waste removal from cells.
## Footnote
51
What do non-stochastic theories of aging focus on?
They are based on genetically programmed events that cause cellular damage accelerating aging.
## Footnote
52
What is the Programmed Theory of aging?
It suggests that cells divide until they can no longer do so triggering apoptosis or cell death with telomere shortening as a factor.
## Footnote
53
What is the Gene Biological Clock Theory?
It proposes that cells have a genetically programmed aging code.
## Footnote
54
What does the Neuroendocrine Theory of aging state?
It states that problems with the hypothalamus-pituitary-endocrine gland feedback system can cause diseases that accelerate aging.
## Footnote
55
What is the Immunologic Autoimmune Theory?
It suggests that aging is due to faulty immunological function linked to general well-being.
## Footnote
56
What are some physiological changes associated with aging in the integumentary system?
Wrinkling decreased immune responsiveness of the skin dehydration and cracking of the skin decreased sweat production gray hair loss of subcutaneous fat and increased susceptibility to pathological conditions.
## Footnote
57
What happens to musculoskeletal function as people age?
There is decreased height reduced range of motion in joints increased postural sway muscle atrophy joint degeneration and foot problems.
## Footnote
58
What are the cardiovascular changes observed in aging?
Decreased cardiac output increased peripheral resistance higher blood pressure and less vessel elasticity.
## Footnote
59
How does aging affect the respiratory system?
There is decreased chest wall compliance maximal breathing capacity and elasticity alongside an increased vulnerability to respiratory infections.
## Footnote
60
What gastrointestinal changes occur with aging?
Decreased esophageal motility atrophy of gastric mucosa slower peristalsis and reduced saliva production.
## Footnote
61
What changes are observed in the urinary system due to aging?
Decrease in nephron count renal blood flow glomerular filtration rate bladder capacity and tubule function along with weaker bladder muscles.
## Footnote
62
What gastrointestinal changes occur with aging?
Decreased esophageal motility atrophy of gastric mucosa slower peristalsis and reduced saliva production.
63
What changes are observed in the urinary system due to aging?
Decrease in nephron count renal blood flow glomerular filtration rate bladder capacity and tubule function along with weaker bladder muscles.
64
What are some nervous system changes associated with aging?
Decrease in brain weight reduced blood flow changes in sleep patterns slower response times and reduced conduction velocity.
65
What are some changes to the special senses as people age?
Hearing loss visual changes like opaque lenses impaired smell and reduced taste sensation.
66
What endocrine changes occur as a result of aging?
Decreased thyroid activity reduced gonadal secretion and insufficient release of insulin by pancreatic beta cells.
67
What psychological changes can be associated with aging?
Changes can be influenced by health status sensory impairments and life events affecting self-attitude.
68
How does personality typically change with aging?
Basic personality tends to remain consistent but may be more openly expressed with age.
69
What are the three types of memory?
Short-term memory (30 seconds to 30 minutes) long-term memory (learned long ago) and sensory memory (lasts only a few seconds).
70
How can older adults improve age-related forgetfulness?
By using memory aids such as mnemonic devices making notes or lists and placing objects in consistent locations.
71
What is the distinction between crystallized and fluid intelligence in aging?
Crystallized intelligence is maintained and arises from accumulated knowledge while fluid intelligence involving new information tends to decline.
72
What factors can interfere with an older person's ability to learn?
Motivation attention span perceptual deficits and illness can impede learning.
73
What is the trend regarding attention span in older adults?
Older adults demonstrate a decreased attention span and are more easily distracted by irrelevant information.
74
What is assessed to identify risk factors for illness and injury in older adults?
Potential health hazards including risk factors such as habits lifestyle patterns personal and family medical history and environmental conditions.
75
What does Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) include?
CGA includes assessment of physical health mental health functional status social functioning and environment.
76
Why is functional status assessment important in older adults?
Functional status is a significant component of an older adult's quality of life and is essential in the overall clinical evaluation of an older person.
77
What are the two types of activities measured in functional status assessment?
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for basic self-care tasks and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) for more complex activities required for independent living.
78
What does the Katz Index assess?
The Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living measures a client's ability to perform activities of daily living independently.
79
What are the two types of activities measured in functional status assessment?
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for basic self-care tasks and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) for more complex activities required for independent living.
80
What is the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?
The MMSE is a widely used test of cognitive function among the elderly which includes assessments of orientation attention memory language and visual-spatial skills.
81
What is the purpose of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)?
PAR-Q is used to uncover health and lifestyle issues prior to starting an exercise program.
82
What does the Self-Perception and Self-Concept Pattern encompass in older adults?
It encompasses a sense of personal identity body language attitudes view of self sense of worth and emotional state.
83
What should be determined subjectively in the Self-Perception and Self-Concept Pattern?
The client's feelings about their competencies and limitations withdrawal from previous activities self-destructive actions excessive grieving and increased dependency on others.
84
What is included in the Roles Relationship Pattern assessment?
Examination of family structure history of relationships social interactions and communication needs.
85
What does the Health Perception Health Management Pattern encompass?
It encompasses the perceived level of health and current management of any health problems.
86
What are the subjective and objective assessments in the Nutritional Metabolic Pattern?
Subjective: Older adult's description patterns and perception of food and fluid intake.
Objective: General appearance indicators of nutritional status height weight and clothing fit.
87
What does the Coping Stress-Tolerance Pattern assess?
It assesses the client's capacity to resist challenges to self-integrity and manage difficult situations.
88
What factors are evaluated in the Cognitive Perceptual Pattern?
Self-management of pain presence of communication difficulties and deficits in sensory function.
89
What is assessed in the Value Belief Pattern of older adults?
Elements of spiritual well-being that the older adult perceives as important for satisfactory daily living and how these influence health promotion behaviors.
90
What does the Activity Exercise Pattern promote?
It encourages the older adult to achieve the recommended 30 minutes of daily physical activity on most days.
91
What is assessed in the Sexuality Reproductive Pattern?
Client's satisfaction with current sexual function and intimacy and perceived satisfaction with sexuality.
92
What is the purpose of health promotion activities for older adults?
To adopt a proactive stance towards an action plan for health promotion and ensure safe medication use.
93
What is assessed in the Sexuality Reproductive Pattern?
Client's satisfaction with current sexual function and intimacy and perceived satisfaction with sexuality.
94
What is the purpose of health promotion activities for older adults?
To adopt a proactive stance towards an action plan for health promotion and ensure safe medication use.
95
What is the Healthy People Initiative?
An initiative designed to increase the quality and quantity of years of healthy life for Americans and to eliminate health disparities.
96
What are some components of health promotion for the elderly?
Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and mental health preservation.
97
What are the three levels of disease prevention?
1. Primary Prevention - to completely prevent a disease; 2. Secondary Prevention - for early detection and management; 3. Tertiary Prevention - to manage clinical disease and prevent complications.
98
What is the definition of Quality of Life according to WHO 1994?
An individual's perception of his or her position in life in the context of their culture and value system related to their goals, expectations, standards, and concerns.
99
What are the determinants of health that affect aging and quality of life?
Behavioral determinants such as physical activity, nutrition, smoking, alcohol abuse, and medication adherence.
100
What does the acronym I HATE FALLING stand for in fall-risk assessment?
I - Inflammation of joints; H - Hypotension; A - Auditory and Visual Impairments; T - Tremors; E - Equilibrium problems; F - Foot problems; A - Arrhythmias; L - Leg discrepancy; I - Lack of conditioning; N - General Weakness; G - Illness.
101
What are some common nursing implications for promoting mental health in older adults?
Using life review tools, recognizing depression, and considering the impact of emotional and physical losses.
102
What is the significance of the Strong for Life Model?
A model exercise program designed for disabled and nondisabled older adults.
## Footnote
Example sentence: The Strong for Life Model provides a structured exercise program tailored to the needs of both disabled and nondisabled older adults.
103
How can falls be prevented in older adults?
By addressing factors such as postural instability, muscle strength, gait disturbances, and environmental conditions.
104
What can be done to support medication adherence in older adults?
Promote self-efficacy and empower patients to become informed medication consumers.
105
What is the goal of active aging programs?
To optimize opportunities for health, community participation, and safe living to enhance quality of life.
106
What is the role of the Center of Active Aging?
To provide quality of life to the elderly by enhancing autonomy, independence, and activity.
107
What strategies should be avoided when helping a patient develop goals?
Avoid strategies that could intimidate.
108
What should patients develop to aid in their treatment?
A list of short-term goals and long-term goals.
109
What is important to plan for in patient follow-up?
Planning for regular follow-up appointments is essential to monitor the patient's progress, address any concerns, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
110
What type of system can be implemented to encourage patient compliance?
A reward system.
Example sentence: Implementing a reward system can motivate patients to adhere to their treatment plan and actively participate in their healthcare journey.
111
What are Personal Determinants in health?
Biological Psychological Physical Social and Economic factors that impact health.
112
What are the Biological Determinants?
Genetic impacts.
113
What are the Psychological Determinants?
Intelligence and Cognitive Capacity.
114
What are the Physical Determinants?
Safe Housing.
115
What are the Social Determinants?
Social Support Violence and Abuse Education and Literacy.
116
What are Economic Determinants?
Factors related to the economic status of individuals.
117
What are Social Services Determinants?
Services that support community health.
118
What is the recommendation for Mammogram screening?
Annually starting at age 40 and continue every 1 to 3 years until ages 70-85.
119
What is the evidence regarding the age to stop Mammogram screening?
Based on randomized trials evidence for age to stop screening is not well established.
120
What is the recommendation for Pelvic Examination cervical smear?
Every 1-3 years after 2-3 negative annual examinations can decrease or discontinue after ages 65-70.
121
What is the evidence for the age to stop Pelvic Examination screening?
Based on randomized trials evidence for age to stop screening is not well established.
122
What is the recommendation for Fecal occult blood test?
Annually after the age of 50.
123
What type of evidence supports the recommendation for Fecal occult blood test?
Evidence from nonrandomized or retrospective studies; fair evidence to support recommendation.
124
What is the recommendation for Prostate examination?
Annually after age 50 if life expectancy is at least 10 years.
125
What is the evidence supporting the recommendation for Prostate examination?
Based on expert opinions or other considerations; limited evidence to support recommendation.
126
What is the recommendation for exercise for older adults?
Encourage aerobic and resistance exercise as tolerated ideally 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily.
127
What is the evidence supporting the exercise recommendation?
Based on randomized trials.
128
What is the guideline for a low-cholesterol diet?
Keep daily fat intake at less than 35% of total calories and saturated fat and trans fatty acid intake at less than 7% of calories.
129
What is the guideline for alcohol intake?
Moderate alcohol use defined as 1 drink daily that does not exceed 1.5 ounces (45ml) of liquor 5 ounces (180 ml) of wine or a standard can of beer.
130
What are the main categories of home care providers?
1. Home care organizations (National Association for Home Care) 2. Medicare-certified agencies (includes hospice and freestanding) 3. Facility
131
What is the guideline for alcohol intake?
Moderate alcohol use defined as 1 drink daily that does not exceed 1.5 ounces (45ml) of liquor 5 ounces (180 ml) of wine or a standard can of beer.
132
What are the main categories of home care providers?
1. Home care organizations (National Association for Home Care) 2. Medicare-certified agencies (includes hospice and freestanding) 3. Facility-based home health agencies.
133
What are the benefits of Home Care services?
For individuals who have chronic medical conditions with exacerbations chronic mental illnesses need assistance with medical regimens continued treatment after hospital discharge or require short-term assistance at home.
134
What is the role of a Home Care Agency?
To confirm home care benefits schedule admission visits and communicate referral information to the nurse admitting the client.
135
What is the nurse's role in home care?
To assess physical functional emotional socioeconomic and environmental well-being; initiate a plan of care; and provide various types of care including teaching medication administration and case management.
136
What does hospice care provide to terminally ill persons?
Care and services that enable individuals to die in facilities or at home.
137
What are the components of comprehensive hospice programs?
Physician services nursing care medical social work counseling services spiritual care certified nursing assistant services and additional therapies as needed.
138
What is the purpose of community-based service providers?
To develop affordable and appropriate programs to assist older adults to remain in the home while maintaining a good quality of life.
139
What types of community services are available for older adults?
Respite care adult day care services senior citizen centers homemaker programs home delivered meals and transportation services.
140
What factors affect the health care needs of non-institutionalized older adults?
Functional status and cognitive function.
141
What is Functional Status?
"An individual's ability to perform normal expected or required activities for self-care."
142
What are the types of housing options for older adults?
1. Accessory apartments 2. Assisted living facilities 3. Congregate housing 4. Elder Cottage Housing Opportunity 5. Foster home care 6. Home sharing 7. Life care or continuing care retirement community (CCRC).
143
What is 'Accessory apartment'?
A self-contained apartment unit within a house that allows an individual to live independently without living alone.
144
What distinguishes assisted living facilities from simple boarding homes?
They provide protective oversight and regular contact with staff members.
145
What is 'Congregate housing'?
A group-living arrangement usually an apartment complex that provides tenants with private living units and services.
146
What is 'Elder Cottage Housing Opportunity'?
A small self-contained portable unit that can be placed in the backyard or at the side of a single-family dwelling.
147
What is 'Congregate housing'?
A group-living arrangement usually an apartment complex that provides tenants with private living units and services.
148
What is 'Elder Cottage Housing Opportunity'?
A small self-contained portable unit that can be placed in the backyard or at the side of a single-family dwelling.
149
What is 'Home sharing'?
Involves two or more unrelated people living together in a house or apartment.
150
What is the assessment of functional status used for?
To determine the type of services an older adult needs to remain in their home.
151
What does subacute care provide?
Care for individuals who are stable and no longer acutely ill but may require services such as rehabilitation intravenous medication therapy and complex respiratory care.
152
What is a 'Special Care Unit' (SCU)?
Facilities or units that specialize in the care of people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementing illnesses.
153
What is the common problem with skin in older adults?
Dry skin.
154
What contributes to dry skin in older adults?
Physiologic changes excessive bathing use of harsh soaps and a dry environment.
155
What should be done during a skin assessment of older adults?
Conduct a complete assessment when the person is undressed to inspect all skin surfaces.
156
What can cause skin irritation and rashes other than dryness?
Medications communicable diseases and contact with chemical substances.
157
What should be suspected if a rash develops after new medication administration?
An allergic reaction.
158
What is scabies?
A superficial infection caused by a parasitic mite that burrows under the skin.
159
What are the signs of scabies infections?
Intense itching and fine dark wavy lines at the flexor surface of the wrist or elbow the webbed area of the fingers the axilla and the genitals.
160
What is the incubation period for scabies?
4 to 6 weeks.
161
Why may recognition of scabies be difficult in older adults?
Because it has an asymptomatic incubation period of 4 to 6 weeks and atypical presentations are common.
162
What should be done when scabies infestation is suspected?
Skin scrapings should be examined to determine the presence of ova or mites.
163
What are common changes in skin pigmentation with aging?
Many of the changes are cosmetic and do not cause problems unless they are located on the face or arms where they may be distressing to the affected person.
164
What are common treatments for conditions such as acne rosacea?
Topical medications that help heal the skin and reduce redness.
165
Why are changes in the size or pigmentation of moles significant?
These changes may indicate the presence of a precancerous or cancerous condition that
166
What are common changes in skin pigmentation with aging?
Topical medications that help heal the skin and reduce redness.
167
Why are changes in the size or pigmentation of moles significant?
These changes may indicate the presence of a precancerous or cancerous condition that needs immediate medical attention.
168
What increases the risk for infection in older adults?
Breaks in tissue integrity.
169
What are common causes of skin tears abrasions lacerations and ulcers in older adults?
Friction shearing force moisture and pressure.
170
What are the risk factors for pressure ulcers in older adults?
Compromised circulation restricted mobility altered level of consciousness fecal or urinary incontinence or nutritional problems.
171
What are the negative effects of pressure ulcers on health?
They can lead to infection pain loss of function and even death.
172
What is the estimated annual treatment cost for pressure ulcers?
11 billion per year.
173
What do new Medicare rules specify about pressure ulcers?
A hospital will not be reimbursed for the care of a patient who develops a pressure ulcer after being admitted.
174
What age-related changes occur in the gastrointestinal system?
Decrease saliva production decrease gag reflex altered intestinal enzymes weaker abdominal wall muscles decreased intestinal tone decreased peristalsis.
175
What is xerostomia?
Dry mouth due to reduced saliva production.
176
What are the consequences of reduced saliva?
Significant consequences for lubricating soft tissues assisting in remineralizing teeth promoting taste sensations and helping to control bacteria and fungus in the oral cavity.
177
What can poor dental health in older adults lead to?
Restrict food intake which can cause constipation and malnourishment.
178
What is dysphagia?
Difficulty in swallowing which can be oropharyngeal or esophageal.
179
What is fecal impaction?
A condition where stool becomes hard and difficult to pass often resulting from chronic constipation.
180
What is fecal incontinence?
Involuntary defecation; the inability to control the passage of stool.
181
What are risk factors for chronic constipation in older adults?
Inactive lifestyle low-fiber and low fluid intake depression laxative abuse certain medications dulled sensations and insufficient time for bowel emptying.
182
What are management strategies for chronic constipation?
Diet high in fiber and fluid regular activity incorporation of foods like prunes or chocolate pudding into diet and yogurt or applesauce for individuals with chewing impairments.
183
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease characterized by heartburn and substernal burning pain.
184
What medications are used to treat GERD?
Antacids (e.g. Maalox) H2 receptor blockers (e.g. Ranitidine/Zantac) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs e.g. Nexium/Esomepr
185
What are management strategies for chronic constipation?
impairments.
186
What causes gastritis?
Smoking drinking alcohol and drinking coffee.
187
What are the predisposing factors for gastric ulcers?
Stress smoking corticosteroids alcohol aspirin and NSAIDs.
188
What are common complications of liver cirrhosis?
Esophageal varices and ascites.
189
What is the primary treatment for colorectal cancer?
Surgery.
190
What are the benefits of exercise for seniors?
Prevent disease improve mental health decrease risks of falls promote social engagement and improve cognitive function.
191
What is the importance of sleep for older adults?
Proper sleep architecture and adequate total sleep time are necessary for proper functioning.
192
What age-related changes in sleep are commonly observed?
Increased sleep latency reduced sleep efficiency increased nocturnal awakenings increased daytime sleepiness greater difficulty falling asleep and decreased amounts of nighttime sleep.
193
What common causes of insomnia are seen in older adults?
Poor sleep habits pain or medical conditions menopause medications lack of exercise stress lack of social engagement sleep disorders and lack of sunlight.
194
What is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
A condition that occurs more frequently in older adults characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs.
195
How does the hypothalamus regulate sleep?
It contains both a sleep center and a wakefulness center.
196
What is the role of melatonin in sleep?
It helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.
197
What is cognitive impairment?
A condition that affects an individual's functional status and is an eligibility criterion for various community programs.
198
Why is cognitive status assessed in older adults?
To establish a baseline assessment and detect any changes that may signal a change in another body system.
199
What are reversible and irreversible cognitive impairments?
Cognitive impairments that can be reversed through treatment or those that are permanent.
200
What are the difficulties individuals may face in executing ADLs or IADLs?
Individuals may have great difficulty executing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) such as shopping paying bills preparing meals and personal care tasks.
201
What is Self-Concept?
Self-Concept is an organized pattern of perceived characteristics along with the values attached to those attributes. It represents how a person understands themselves.
202
How does Self-Perception affect personality?
Self-Perception affects a person's personality; a wrong self-perception may lead to psychological problems.
203
What is Self-Concept?
Self-Concept is an organized pattern of perceived characteristics along with the values attached to those attributes. It represents how a person understands themselves.
204
How does Self-Perception affect personality?
Self-Perception affects a person's personality; a wrong self-perception may lead to psychological problems.
205
What is the significance of coping and stress in aging?
As individuals grow older they experience major life changes including career transitions and retirement children leaving home loss of loved ones physical challenges and the loss of independence. How they handle these changes is often key to healthy aging.
206
What are tips for maintaining physical and emotional health in older adults?
1. Learn to cope with change 2. Find meaning and joy 3. Stay connected 4. Get active and boost vitality 5. Keep your mind sharp.
207
What historical societal view existed regarding sexuality?
An interest in sex was considered sinful and improper; society viewed sexual expression outside of wedlock as disgraceful and indecent.
208
What are common barriers to sexual activity in older adults?
Common barriers include unavailability of a partner psychological barriers medical conditions erectile dysfunction medication adverse effects and cognitive impairment.
209
What is the purpose of basic education regarding sexual function in older adults?
Basic education helps older adults understand the effects of aging on sexuality providing a realistic framework for sexual functioning.
210
What are the signs of visual impairment in older adults?
Signs include squinting or tilting the head changes in ability to drive or read holding objects closer difficulty with color discrimination and hesitation in reaching for objects.
211
What is a cataract?
A cataract is an opacity of the crystalline lens or its capsule causing lens clouding decreased light to the retina and limited vision.
212
What are the risk factors for developing cataracts?
Risk factors include increased age smoking and alcohol use diabetes hyperlipidemia trauma to the eye UV sun exposure and corticosteroid medications.
213
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Symptoms include blurred vision glare halos around objects double vision lack of color contrast and poor night vision.
214
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss.
215
What are the symptoms of open-angle glaucoma?
Symptoms include painless vision loss slowed flow of aqueous humor and mid-peripheral visual field loss.
216
What nursing care can be provided for patients with glaucoma?
Nursing care includes explaining the importance of eye medications continued medical supervision and teaching the client to avoid activities that increase IOP.
217
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)?
ARMD is a condition characterized by breakdown or thinning of macular tissue related to aging leading to slow progression of visual loss.
218
What nursing care can be provided for patients with glaucoma?
Nursing care includes explaining the importance of eye medications, continued medical supervision, and teaching the client to avoid activities that increase IOP.
219
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)?
ARMD is a condition characterized by breakdown or thinning of macular tissue related to aging leading to slow progression of visual loss.
220
What are the risk factors for ARMD?
Risk factors include age above 50, cigarette smoking, family history of ARMD, increased exposure to UV light, Caucasian race, hypertension, and lack of dietary antioxidants.
221
What is conductive hearing loss?
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is unable to be transmitted due to problems in the external or middle ear, such as impacted cerumen or otitis media.
222
What are the causes of sensorineural hearing loss?
Common causes include presbycusis, high-frequency hearing loss from excessive noise, Meniere's disease, tumors, and infections.
223
What are potential complications of xerostomia?
Complications include difficulty swallowing, risk for aspiration pneumonia, periodontal disease, speech difficulties, and social isolation.
224
What are the common causes of olfactory dysfunction?
Common causes include nasal and sinus disease, upper respiratory infections, head trauma, chemotherapy, and poor dentition.
225
What nursing diagnoses are associated with vision impairment in older patients?
Nursing diagnoses include sensory-perceptual alterations, visual safety, mobility, self-care activities, and mood assessment.
226
What should be assessed when examining a patient for hearing loss?
Assessment includes history, physical examination, inspection of the ear canal, and evaluating the ability to perform activities of daily living.
227
What are the implications of taste impairment?
Implications include difficulty swallowing, risk for aspiration pneumonia, impaired flavor perception, and social isolation due to embarrassment.
228
What is a diagnosis associated with hyposmia?
Sensory-perceptual alterations, olfactory.
229
What nursing diagnosis is related to changes in physical sensations?
Sensory-perceptual alterations, tactile.
230
What are some nursing assessments for aging patients with sensory changes?
Assess safety and preventive measures.
231
What are key safety measures related to nutrition for older adults?
Date and label all foods; place natural gas detectors for gas heat; place smoke detectors in strategic locations; establish schedules for personal hygiene and house cleaning; remove kitchen waste every evening.
232
What is the learning objective regarding nursing interventions for the aging patient with sensory changes?
Recognize nursing interventions that can be implemented to assist the aging patient with sensory changes.
233
How often should healthy older adults have a complete eye examination?
Every 1 to 2 years.
234
What specific assessments are included in a complete eye examination for older adults?
Visual acuity, retina, intraocular pressure.
The ophthalmologist performed a thorough examination of the patient's visual acuity, retina, and intraocular pressure.
235
What should be observed during the assessment of vision?
Observe appearance, clothing, cleanliness, self-care, indications of bumps and bruises.
236
How often should healthy older adults have a complete eye examination?
Visual acuity retina intraocular pressure.
237
What should be observed during the assessment of vision?
Observe appearance clothing cleanliness self-care indications of bumps and bruises.
238
What should be included in the interview regarding vision?
Adequacy of vision recent changes in vision visual problems.
239
What visual problems should be looked for during assessment?
Red eye excessive tearing or discharge headache or feeling of eyestrain when reading foreign body sensation new onset of double vision loss of central or peripheral vision trauma or eye injury.
240
What should be inspected during a vision assessment?
Movement of eyelids abnormally colored sclera abnormal or absent papillary response.
241
What tools are used for vision testing?
Snellen chart or reading from print visual field testing extraocular movements.
242
What are examples of visual aids for the visually impaired?
Low-vision clinics telescopic lenses Braille books computer scanners tinted glasses large print books seeing eye dogs canes.
243
What is a common stigma associated with using assistive devices like canes?
Often rejected due to stigma attached.
244
What are some safety recommendations for older adults at home?
Provide adequate lighting in high-traffic areas recommend motion sensors for lighting use proper lampshades avoid reflective floors use hot colors for signage and teach the importance of walking slowly.
245
What are preventive measures for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)?
Wear ultraviolet protective lenses smoking cessation exercising eating a healthy diet taking vitamins especially zinc oxide 80 mg.
246
What are nonstructural factors in physiologic primary cerebral disease?
Vascular insufficiency transient ischemic attacks cerebrovascular accidents thrombosis.
247
What are structural factors in physiologic primary cerebral disease?
Trauma tumors normal pressure hydrocephalus.
248
What cardiovascular abnormalities can lead to decreased cardiac output?
Myocardial infarction arrhythmias congestive heart failure.
249
What pulmonary abnormalities can cause inadequate gas exchange?
Pulmonary disease alveolar hypoventilation pneumonia.
250
What are some metabolic disturbances that can occur?
Electrolyte abnormalities acidosis alkalosis hypoglycemia hyperglycemia.
251
What endocrine disturbances can affect older adults?
Hypothyroidism hyperthyroidism diabetes mellitus.
252
What are common psychological factors affecting older adults?
Severe emotional stress depression anxiety pain fatigue grief.
253
How do you differentiate between dementia and acute confusional state?
Dementia is chronic and generally insidious while acute confusional state has acute onset and fluctuating awareness.
254
What are the characteristics of acute confusional state?
Fluctuating awareness impaired attention recent memory impaired.
255
What communication strategies are effective for elderly patients with impaired verbal communication?
Use formal language establish rapport avoid rushing use.
256
How do you differentiate between dementia and acute confusional state?
Dementia is chronic and generally insidious while acute confusional state has acute onset and fluctuating awareness.
Example sentence: The patient's symptoms suggested dementia due to the gradual decline in cognitive function.
257
What are the characteristics of acute confusional state?
Fluctuating awareness impaired attention recent memory impaired.
Additional information: Acute confusional state is often seen in hospitalized patients.
258
What communication strategies are effective for elderly patients with impaired verbal communication?
Use formal language establish rapport avoid rushing use active listening skills and avoid medical jargon.
By using these communication strategies, healthcare providers can better connect with elderly patients experiencing verbal communication difficulties.
