Exam 2 - Chapter 15 Flashcards
what is considered a geriatric syndrome?
dehydration
which conditions are associated with dehydration?
- diabetes
- heart failure
- respiratory diseases
- fraility
dehydration is a risk factor for which conditions?
- delirium
- constipation
- delayed wound healing
- renal failure
- electrolyte imbalances
what are the reasons for increased risk of dehydration in old age?
- decreased water-body ratio
- cognitive impairment
- increased incontinence
- polypharmacy
- diminished thirst sense
- reduced likelihood of self-hydration (dependence)
categories of patients who cannot hydrate themselves
- can drink
- won’t drink
- can’t drink
- end of life
patients who can drink are capable of consuming fluids
true
what problems do those who can drink have?
- forgetfulness
- uneducated on importance of daily fluids
- inaccessibility
patients who can’t drink are physically incapable or have swallowing disorders
true
what are the interventions for those who can’t drink?
- dysphagia prevention interventions
- use of straws, sippy cups, or sports bottles
- safe swallowing techniques
- oral care
- consuming foods rich in fluid (smoothies)
patients who won’t drink have the highest risk for dehydration
true
what are the challenges with those who won’t drink?
- refusal to drink
- fear of incontinence
what are the interventions for those who won’t drink?
- offer small amounts of liquid frequently
- implement toileting programs
- educate on maintaining fluid intake
patients who are terminally ill will have any type of dehydration problem
true
terminally ill patients with dehydration problems are dependent on family members and advance directives
true
signs of dehydration
- decreased skin turgor
- dry mucous membranes
- speech incoherence
- tachycardia
- decreased UOP
- dark urine
- weakness
- dry axilla
- sunken eyes
- decreased weight
what are some age-related changes that affect hydration status?
- decreased thirst sensation
- decrease water-body ratio
- decreased ability of kidneys to concentrate urine
the are more adults who are 81 and older that are dehydrated than other older adult age groups
true
dehydration is best confirmed with lab testing (electrolyte levels)
true
general interventions for dehydration
- ≥1500 mL
- encourage with medications
- provide preferred fluids (along with water)
- frequent
- verbal reminders
- easily accessible
types of fluid quality
- water
- milk, juice, non-salty soups
- coffee and tea
- alcohol
which is the worst fluid quality?
alcohol
which medications are risk factors for dehydration?
- diuretics
- laxatives
- ACE inhibitors
- psychotropics
how can the nurse promote oral health?
- encourage annual dental exams
- modify the toothbrush (when manual dexterity is impaired)
- adequate fluids (1500mL)
- avoid dry mouth (from medications, alcohol, tobacco)