Growth And Development Exam 2 Flashcards
What are development theories?
Developmental theories divide the life span into stages, each representing a period with common characteristics and tasks.
Understanding developmental theories is essential to nursing practice.
Why do more health problems develop with age?
Accumulation of a wide variety of molecular and cellular damage over time (wear-and-tear).
This explains the increased incidence of chronic diseases among older adults.
Is cognitive decline inevitable?
No, aging does not mean a decline in intelligence; however, short-term memory loss is common.
Cognitive functions can remain intact with proper engagement and mental exercises.
What is ageism?
Age-based discrimination against older adults.
This can lead to negative expectations that affect nursing assessments and interventions.
Define development.
The process of adapting to one’s body and environment over time through skill progression and increasing complexity of function.
Examples include recognizing right from wrong and facing the nearness of death.
Define growth.
Physical changes that occur over time, such as increases in height, sexual maturation, and gains in weight and muscle tone.
Growth is the physical aspect of development.
What age range defines a young adult?
20-39 years old.
What are some physical developments in young adults?
- Physical senses peak
- Cardiac output and efficiency peak
- Muscles function optimally from 25-30
- Childbearing is optimal
- Pregnancy-related changes occur
- Body-image changes
Brain maturation continues until the mid-20s.
What tasks are associated with Havighurst’s theory for young adults?
- Choosing a mate
- Achieving a masculine or feminine social role
- Learning to live with a partner
- Rearing children
- Managing a home
- Establishing an occupation
- Taking on community responsibilities
- Finding a compatible social group.
Which theory focuses on moral development?
Kohlberg’s moral theory expands on Piaget’s theory.
What is Erikson’s Stage 6?
Intimacy vs Isolation (21-40 years).
Focuses on choosing social groups and romantic partners, and taking on more commitments.
What are common health problems in middle adults?
- Cancer
- Obesity
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Substance Abuse
- Psychosocial stressors
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Tooth decay and gum disease.
What is Erikson’s Stage 7?
Generativity vs Stagnation.
Generativity involves guiding the next generation, while stagnation occurs when development ceases.
What are the physical changes in older adults?
- Decrease in muscle strength
- Increased fat deposits
- Decreased cardiac output
- Decreased elasticity of chest wall
- Decreased visual acuity.
These changes affect overall health and functionality.
What nutritional needs are essential for older adults?
- Fiber
- Folate
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- B-12
- Protein
- Water.
What are some misconceptions about aging?
- Depression and loneliness are normal in older adults
- Older adults can’t learn new things
- It’s inevitable that older people will get dementia.
These misconceptions contribute to ageism.
What is the significance of the Blue Zones?
Characteristics that have produced the world’s longest living people, including natural movement, community, sense of purpose, and diet.
What are ‘catch-up’ vaccinations?
- Tdap
- Covid
- Flu
- Pneumonia.
Which psychoanalyst’s theory focuses on cognition?
Piaget.
What dietary recommendations should a 45-year-old female client with significant planned weight loss follow?
Foods rich in or fortified with Vitamin D and Calcium.
What does despair refer to in Erikson’s Stage 8?
Looking back on life with feelings of regret, shame, or disappointment.
What is the difference between delirium and dementia?
Dementia comes on gradually and is permanent, while delirium can develop suddenly and usually resolves quickly if treated.
What steps should be taken when elder abuse is suspected?
- Report to authorities
- Ensure client safety
- Set up discharge resources
- Protect client password and communicate to staff.
