Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM


Top Flashcards (Certified)
All Flashcards

NURS3313 Adult Health > Chapter 8 Considerations for the Older Adult > Flashcards

Chapter 8 Considerations for the Older Adult Flashcards

1
Q

What two factors affect life expectancy?

A

Gender & Age

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

True or False: Women live longer than men.

A

True

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Most deaths occur in which age group?

A

Adults ages 65 or older

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Leading Causes of Death Among Older Adults

A

Heart Disease

Cancer

Unintentional injuries

Chronic lower pulmonary diseases

Stroke

Alzheimer’s disease

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Goal of Older Adult Care

A

Help older adults sustain maximum functional level & dignity despite physical, social, and psychological losses

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Intrinsic Aging

A

Changes caused by the normal aging process that are genetically programmed and essentially universal

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Cardiovascular Changes in the Older Adult

A

Myocardial hypertrophy->Decreased CO

Increased fibrosis/calcified tissues-> Reduced stroke volume

Calcium and fat deposits accumulate w/in arterial walls-> HTN & increased workload

Slower recovery response to stress or exercise

Likely to have dyspnea or neurologic symptoms associated with heart disease

Absence of chest pain is not a reliable indicator of the absence of heart disease

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Optimal Blood Pressure

A

<130/88 mmHg

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

Nursing Interventions for Orthostatic Hypotension

A

Assess BP in 2 positions & educate patients to rise slowly

Avoid straining when having bowel mvmnt

Consider 5-6 small meals each day to min hypotension that can occur after a large meal

Avoid extreme temperatures

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

How does extremely high temperatures affect blood pressure?

A

Causes vasodilation-> BP drops

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

How does extremely low temperatures affect blood pressure?

A

Causes vasoconstriction-> BP rises

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

Respiratory System Changes in Older Adults

A

Diminished response efficiency

Reduced maximal inspiratory & expiratory force

Diseases manifest less typical symptoms (fatigue, lethargy, anorexia, dehydration

Lung mass decreases & residual volume increases

Smoking is the most significant risk factor

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

Nursing Interventions for Respiratory System Changes

A

Encourage regular exercise and appropriate fluid intake,

Encourage COVID shot and booster, pneumococcal vaccination, and yearly flu shot

Educate patient to avoid people who are ill

Remind hospitalized patients to cough and take deep breaths_ frequently

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

Integumentary System Changes in Older Adults

A

Epidural proliferation decreases-> dermis becomes thinner

Elastic fibers reduced-> collagen becomes stiffer

Subcut fat diminishes-> less likely to conserve body heat

Loss of resiliency with wrinkling and sagging ->Drier and more susceptible to burns, injury, and infection

Hair pigmentation may change

Balding may occur

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Strategies to Promote Healthy Skin Function

A

Smoking cessation

Limit alcohol consumption

Avoid sun exposure & use sun protection factor of 15 or wear protective clothing

Use emollient skin cream

Avoid hot soaks in the bathtub

Maintain optimal _____________ and ______________

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

Reproductive System Changes in Older Adults

A

Less intense response to sexual stimulation

Decline in sexual activity , but no loss in sexual desire

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

Female Reproductive System Changes in Older Adults

A

Vaginal narrowing

Decreased elasticity & secretions

Involution of uterus & ovaries

Decreased tone

Changes can cause vaginal bleeding & painful penile-vaginal intercourse

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Male Reproductive System Changes in Older Adults

A

Less firm testes but may continue to produce viable sperm up to 90 years of age

Diminished production of testosterone at about age 50 Decreased libido and ED may develop but likely associated with other factors

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Nursing Interventions for Reproductive System Changes in Older Adults

A

Encourage use of water-soluble lubricants

Assess causes of decreased libido or ED

Show sensitivity, expert knowledge, and support during communication

Provide information on available non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic, and surgical methods

Consult w/provider to offer referral to a gynecologist, urologist, or sex therapist, if warranted

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Genitourinary Changes in Older Adults

A

Increased susceptibility to UTIs

Changes may be a combo of aging & pathologic conds (HTN)

Decreased filtration rate

Diminished tubular function w/less efficiency in reabsorbing & concentrating the urine

Slower restoration of acid-base balance in response to stress

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Male Genitourinary System Changes in Older Adults

A

Benign prostatic hyperplasia: gradual increase in urine retention and overflow incontinence

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Female Genitourinary System Changes in Older Adults

A

Relaxed perineal muscles, detrusor instability (urge incontinence), urethral dysfunction (stress urinary incontinence)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Urgency/Frequency Syndrome

A

Decreased “warning time”, drops of urine lost w/laugh, cough, & position change

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Nursing Interventions for Genitourinary Changes

A

Encourage adequate fluid intake helps to reduce the risk of bladder infections and helps to decrease urinary incontinence

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Examples of bladder irritants
Caffeinated beverages, alcohol, & artificial sweeteners
26
GI System Changes in Older Adults
Decreased sense of thirst, smell, taste Decreased salivation Difficulty chewing and swallowing food Delayed esophageal, gastric emptying Diminished secretion of gastric acid and pepsin -Due more to pathologic conditions rather than aging (Reduces absorption of iron, calcium, and vitamin B12) Reduced gastrointestinal motility-> Delayed emptying and early satiety Increased incidence of gallstones and common bile duct stones
27
Practices that Promote GI Health
Regular brushing and flossing and regular dental care Drinking adequate fluids Eating small, frequent meals high in fiber and low in fat Avoiding heavy activity or lying flat after eating Avoid use of laxatives and antacids
28
Nutritional Health Considerations for Older Adults
Require fewer calories Require more nutrient-rich, healthy diet Unintentional weight loss may affect ability to maintain health and fight illness
29
Factors that Contribute to Malnutrition in Older Adults
Apathy Immobility Depression Loneliness Poverty Inadequate knowledge Poor oral health
30
Nutritional Health Nursing Actions
Consider budgetary constraints and physical limitations Identify nutritional problems Work within patient's own framework of knowledge of their health status Recommend a reduced fat diet, sufficient protein, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber for health and prevention of disease
31
Factors that Affect Sleep Quality
Respiratory problems during sleep Restless leg syndrome Nocturia Pain Osteoarthritis Heart Failure Incontinence Prostatic hyperplasia Menopause-related problems Alzheimer's disease or Dementia Depression or Social Isolation
32
Restless Leg Syndrome
A condition characterized by a nearly irresistible urge to move the legs, typically in the evenings
33
Consequences of Poor Sleep
Cognitive decline Increase risk for falls Daytime fatigue Reduced physical and mental health Reduced quality of life Poor ICU outcomes
34
Nursing Interventions for Sleep
Assess and identify sleep problems Provide health education on sleep hygiene behaviors (sleep schedule)
35
Alterations in Bone Remodeling Lead To:
Loss of bone density Loss of muscle strength, size Deterioration of muscle fibers and cell membranes Degenerated joint cartilage
36
Musculoskeletal Changes in Older Adults
Height loss Prone to fractures Kyphosis Back pain Loss of strength, flexibility, & endurance Joint pain
37
When does progressive bone loss occur?
Before age 40 w/out exercise
38
How often should older adults exercise?
3x a week (weight-bearing exercises)
39
Nursing Actions for Musculoskeletal Systems
Encourage participation in a regular exercise program Recommend bone density screenings Take calcium & vitamin D supplements as prescribed
40
Benefits of Regular Exercise Program Participation
Increased strength, aerobic capacity, flexibility, and balance -Hospitalized patients benefit from getting OOBas soon as possible and in-hospital activity
41
Nervous System Changes in Older Adults
Difficult to maintain homeostasis Decreased nerve cells Nerve impulses conducted slower (takes longer to respond-> falls, injuries, & driving errors) Reduced cerebral circulation (gait and balance affected) Sudden onset on confusion may be 1st symptom of an infection/change in physical condition (pneumonia, UTI, med interactions)
42
Nursing Actions for Nervous System Changes
Advise older adults to allow longer time to respond to stimulus and to move more deliberately Encourage adequate nutrition and absorption of B12, especially those following a vegetarian diet
43
Sensory Deprivation
Absence of stimuli in the environment/ inability to interpret existing stimuli
44
Vision Changes in Older Adults
Diminished ability to focus on close objects; inability to tolerate glare, difficulty adjusting to changes of light intensity; decreased ability to distinguish colors Poor night vision & "dry eye" Most common eye diseases are cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration
45
What is the primary cause of vision loss in adults 65 years or older?
Macular degeneration (MD)
46
Presbyopia
Diminished ability to focus on close objects
47
Cataracts
Clouding of the eye lens
48
Glaucoma
Vision loss due to increased pressure on the optic nerve
49
Macular degeneration
Loss of central vision
50
Nursing Actions for Vision Changes in the Older Adults
Wear eyeglasses & use sunglasses outdoors Avoid abrupt changes from dark to light Use adequate indoor lighting Avoid nighttime driving Use contrasting colors for color coding
51
Hearing Changes in Older Adults
Presbycusis Tympanic membrane thinning & loss of resiliency Difficulty w/sound discrimination especially w/ noisy environment
52
Presbycusis
Decreased ability to hear high-pitched sounds
53
Nursing Actions for Hearing Changes in Older Adults
Recommend hearing screenings Reduce background noise Directly face client Enunciate clearly Speak w/low-pitched voice, use nonverbal cues, rephrasing
54
Taste & Smell Changes in Older Adults
Decreased ability to taste & smell -Excess use of sugar & salt
55
Nursing Actions for Taste & Smell Changes in Older Adults
Encourage use of lemon, spices, & herbs Encourage smoking cessation
56
Ageism
Prejudice/discrimination on the basis of someone's age
57
Coping
Patterns and ability to adapt to stress develop over course of lifetime and remain consistent later in life
58
Nursing Strategies to Promote Cognitive Function
Supply Mnemonics Encourage ongoing learning Link new information with familiar information Use visual, auditory, and other sensory cues Encourage use of prescription glasses &hearing aids Provide glare-free lighting and quiet, nondistracting environment Set short-term goals Prioritize the most important information Keep education period short Pace learning tasks Encourage verbal participation Reinforce successful learning in a positive manner
59
Polypharmacy
The use of multiple medications on a regular basis
60
Med Absorption Changes in Older Adults
May be affected by changes in gastric pH & decrease in GI motility
61
Med Distribution Changes in Older Adults
May be altered due to decrease in body water & increase in body fat
62
"Start low, go slow"
Need adjustment of med dosage based on age
63
Nursing Implications for Pharmacologic Aspects
Assess knowledge of medications and use Identify patient's beliefs and concerns about the medication Review need for medication, coordination of prescriber Keep medication regimen as simple as possible
64
Factors that Affect Compliance
Number of medications prescribed Complexity of the regimen Difficulty opening containers Inadequate patient education Financial cost Disease or medication interfering with patient's life
65
Nursing Actions for Mental Health Issues in Older Adults
Recognize, assess, refer, collaborative, treat, & support older adults who exhibit s/s of depression, substance, abuse, delirium, or dementia
66
Delirium
Acute, confused state that begins w/disorientation
67
Alzheimer's Disease (AD)
A progressive, irreversible, degenerative neurologic disease that begins insidiously & is characterized by gradual loss of cognitive func & disturbances in behavior & affect
68
Causes of Alzheimer's Disease
Genetics NT changes Vasc abnormalities Stress hormones Circadian changes Head trauma Presence of seizure disorders
69
Clinical Manifestations of Alzheimer's Disease
Progressive dementia Memory failure Personality disturbance Loss of intellectual func assoc w/ cerebral cortical atrophy Beta-amyloid plaque formation Intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles
70
Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease
Lasts 1-3 years Memory loss Poor judgement & poor problem-solving Difficulty adapting to new environments & challenges Agitation/apathy
71
Middle-Stage Alzheimer's Disease
Lasts 2-10 Difficult w/recent & remote memory Apraxia Irritability Depression Restlessness Difficulty swallowing Occasional incontinence Communication difficulties Motor disturbances Forgetfulness Psychosis
72
Late-stage Alzheimer's Disease
Loss of all mental abilities & ability to care for self
73
End-stage Alzheimer's Disease
Loss of all voluntary activity
74
What is the most common mood disorder among older adults?
Depression
75
Subtle Signs & Symptoms of Depression
Fatigue Diminished memory & concentration Feelings of worthlessness Sleep disturbances Appetite disturbances with excessive weight loss or gain Restlessness Impaired attention span Suicidal ideations
76
Non-pharmacological Nursing Measures for Depression
Exercise, bright lighting, increasing interpersonal interactions, cognitive therapy, and reminiscence therapy
77
Nursing Interventions for Depression
Monitor closely to avoid med toxicity, hypotensive events, and falls Monitor for side effects Provide adequate patient education Offer support and encouragement Provide strategies to maintain safety, such as changing positions slowly and maintaining adequate hydration
78
Geriatric Syndromes
Common conditions that tend to be multifactorial and do not fall under discrete disease categories
79
Examples of Geriatric Syndromes
Falls Delirium Frailty Dizziness Urinary incontinence
80
Geriatric Triad
Includes changes in cog status, falls, & incontinence
81
Causes for Impaired Mobility
Strokes Parkinson's disease Diabetic neuropathy Cardiovascular compromise Osteoarthritis Osteoporosis Sensory deficits
82
Nursing Actions for Impaired Mobility
Encourage older adult to stay as active as possible Active ROM and strengthening exercises with unaffected extremities Passive ROM exercises on the affected extremities
83
Active ROM (Range-of-Motion)
Pt moves a part of their body w/out outside assistance
84
Passive ROM (Range-of- Motion)
An outside force causes mvmnt of the joint
85
Nursing Actions for Falls
Implement fall prevention measures for hospitalized patients Encourage patient/family to make lifestyle and environmental changes to prevent falls: -Adequate lighting - Grab bars in bathtub, shower or near toilet - Properly fitted clothing and shoes -Identify trip hazards: rugs, small objects, or pets
86
Geriatric Syndromes: Increased Susceptibility to Infection
Altered pain & febrile responses (mental confusion, increased respirations, tachycardia, and a change in skin color) Altered emotional impact Altered systemic response
87
What is the most common form of abuse against older adults?
Neglect
88
Nursing Actions for Elder Abuse
Be alert to possible elder neglect abuse Assess during health history Implement preventative action when caregiver strain is evident Provide resources to family or patient for early detection and intervention Interdisciplinary approach to help caregiver develop self-awareness, increased insight, and understanding of disease and aging process
89
Medicare
Federally funded health insurance for those 65 yrs or older
90
Medicaid
Joint federal & state program that gives health coverage to some people w/limited income & resources
91
Advance Directives
Legal document providing instructions for care (living will) or names a proxy decision maker

NURS3313 Adult Health (27 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2025 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions