Semifinals Flashcards
Hypertension ______ with advancing age and is the most _______ of older adults, making it a problem the gerontological nurse commonly encounter
hypertension increases with advancing age and is the most prevalent cardiovascular disease of older adults, making it a problem the gerontological nurse commonly encounters.
Many older individuals have high blood pressure arising from the _____ associated with ______, which produces ____.
Many older individuals have high blood pressure arising from the vasoconstriction associated with aging, which produces peripheral resistance.
Assessment of the cardiovascular system
Assessment of the cardiovascular system can begin at the moment you see the patient by observing indicators of cardiovascular status.
Assessment of the cardiovascular system can begin at the moment you see the patient by observing indicators of cardiovascular status such observations would note following:
Generalized coloring: Note pallor, which can accompany cardiovascular disorders.
Energy level: Note fatigue and the amount of activity that can be tolerated.
Breathing pattern: Observe respirations while the patient ambulates, changes position, and speaks. Acute dyspnea warrants prompt medical attention because it can be a symptom of myocardial infarction in older adults.
Condition of nails: Inspect the color, shape, thickness, curvature, and markings in nail beds, which can give insight into problems. Nails may be thick and dry in the presence of cardiovascular disease. Check blanching; circulatory insufficiency can delay the nails’ return to pink after blanching. Advanced cardiac disease can cause clubbing of the nails.
Status of vessels: Inspect the vessels on the extremities, head, and neck. Note varicosities, as well as redness on the skin above a vessel.
Hair on extremities: Hair loss can accompany poor circulation.
Edema: Swelling of the ankles and fingers is often indicative of cardiovascular disorders.
Mental status: Inadequate cerebral circulation often manifests itself through confusion; evaluate cognitive function and level of consciousness.
cardiovascular symptoms what to interview
Symptoms:
- Inquire regarding the presence of dizziness, light-headedness, edema, cold extremities, palpitations, blackouts, breathing difficulties, coughing, hemoptysis, chest pain, or unusual sensations in the chest, neck, back, or jaws.
elicit informationg through questions such as the following:
“Do your arms or legs ever become cold or numb?”
“Do dark spots or sores ever develop on your legs?”
“Do your legs get painful or swollen when you walk or stand?”
“Do you ever have periods of feeling dizzy, light-headed, or confused?”
“Does one leg ever look larger than the other?”
interview changes in function
Ask the patient if he or she has noted changes in physical or mental function:
“Do you have difficulty or have you noticed any changes in your ability to walk, work, or take care of yourself?”
“Do you ever have periods in which your thinking doesn’t seem clear?”
“Have you had to restrict activities or change your lifestyle recently?”
what to interview ing lifestyle practice
“How often do you exercise, for what length of time, and what type of exercise do you do?”
“What is your pattern of alcohol consumption?”
“Do you consume any illegal or recreational drugs, and if so, what type and how frequently?”
“What supplements (vitamin, herbal, and homeopathic) are you using?”
“Do you do anything to promote health (e.g., take a daily aspirin and follow a special diet)?”
