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Questions and Answers
What process can lead to somatic DNA damage?
Which of the following is a biological theory of aging?
Which lifestyle modification can contribute to healthy aging?
What does Jung's theory of individualism primarily focus on?
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In Erikson's theory, what is generativity?
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What may result from an inability to achieve generativity, according to Erikson?
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What is a significant factor that differentiates aging from disease?
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Which aspect is included in the psychological theory of aging?
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What is the focus of gerontology nursing?
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What classification corresponds to the 'middle old' category in geriatric patients?
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Which theory postulates that aging is controlled by the immune system?
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Which of the following factors does NOT contribute to increased life expectancy?
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What is the 'Wear and Tear Theory' primarily concerned with?
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Which age group is considered 'very old frail elderly' according to classification?
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The accumulation of cross-linked proteins damaging cells and tissues is known as what?
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What does the term 'senescence' refer to?
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What is the most common change in the sense of taste and smell in older adults?
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Which health-promoting strategy is recommended for enhancing communication with older adults who may have hearing loss?
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What is a key principle in preventing pressure ulcers?
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What could be a possible psychological change in older adults influenced by sensory impairments?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of reduced vestibular sensitivity in older adults?
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Which statement regarding the changes to personality in older adults is accurate?
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What is a common visual complaint among older adults?
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Which change in auditory function is often observed in older adults?
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What is a significant change in the skin of older adults that increases the risk of injuries?
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Which of the following is NOT a cause of rashes and skin irritation in older adults?
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What factors increase the risk of pressure ulcers in older adults?
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Which nursing intervention is recommended for reducing the risk of pressure ulcers due to immobility?
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What symptom can result from dry skin in older adults?
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What primarily influences the rigidity often observed in older persons?
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Which type of memory lasts only a few seconds and is obtained through sensory organs?
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How can older adults improve age-related forgetfulness?
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What remains the same regardless of age concerning intelligence?
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Which factor can interfere with an older person's ability to learn?
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What is a noted change in attention span among older adults?
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What does chronic psychological stress associate with in older adults?
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What is typically more difficult for older adults when acquiring new habits?
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What is a significant risk associated with the thinning of the epidermal layer in older adults?
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Which of the following factors can cause skin rashes and irritation in older adults, aside from dryness?
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What is a primary nursing intervention for preventing pressure ulcers in immobile older adults?
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Which of the following statements about dry skin in older adults is true?
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What specific group of older adults is at an increased risk for developing pressure ulcers?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Gerontologic Nursing
- Geriatrics: deals with diseases and problems associated with old age.
- Gerontology: scientific study of the aging process.
- Gerontological Nursing: focuses on practical care, developing care plans, and educating older adults to enhance well-being and quality of life.
Age-Related Concepts
- Age Discrimination: emotional prejudice against older adults.
- Ageism: dislike or discrimination towards aging individuals.
- Senescence: biological changes leading to decreased survival and adaptation as organisms age.
- Classification of Geriatric Patients:
- Young old: ages 64-74
- Middle old: ages 75-84
- Very old frail elderly: ages 85 and above
Factors Affecting Life Expectancy
- Declining fertility rates and improved longevity increase overall life expectancy.
- Age dynamics play a role in demographic shifts.
Theories of Aging
- Biological Theories: focus on physiological aspects.
- Programmed Theory: aging is genetically determined.
- Endocrine Theory: hormones contribute to aging processes.
- Immunologic Theory: immune system regulation is key to aging.
- Error Theories: cumulative environmental damage leads to aging.
- Wear and Tear Theory: bodies wear out over time.
- Cross-Link Theory: cross-linked proteins cause cellular dysfunction and aging.
- Free-Radical Theory: free radicals damage essential molecules, affecting bodily functions.
Implications in Nursing
- Distinct understanding of age-related changes versus pathological conditions is crucial.
- Gerontological nurses can advocate for health through lifestyle modifications and preventative measures against muscle atrophy.
Psychological Theories of Aging
- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs highlights motivation from internal needs.
- Jung’s Theory of Individualism addresses personality traits and mid-life crises.
- Erikson’s Theory emphasizes the necessity of accomplishing life tasks at various stages for healthy aging.
Sensory Changes in Aging
- Vision: decreased acuity, glare sensitivity, and blurred vision are common.
- Hearing: age-related hearing loss includes decreased acuity and vestibular sensitivity.
- Taste and Smell: reduced ability and xerostomia (dry mouth) are prevalent.
- Touch: diminished sensitivity to light touch increases fall risk.
Health Promoting Strategies
- Use eyeglasses and hearing aids as necessary.
- Articulate clearly and use nonverbal cues when communicating.
- Encourage the use of spices and herbs to enhance flavor.
- Advise patients to rise slowly to avoid falls.
Pressure Ulcers and Injury Prevention
- Braden and Norton Scales assess risk levels for pressure injuries.
- Preventive measures include turning patients every 2 hours and providing nutritional support to maintain skin integrity.
Psychological Changes Influenced By Various Factors
- Personality changes often reflect life events rather than age.
- Health status, genetic factors, and education all influence psychological and cognitive functions.
- Social isolation may hinder psychological well-being.
Memory and Intelligence in Older Adults
- Memory Types:
- Short Term: lasts 30 seconds to 30 minutes.
- Long Term: retains older memories.
- Sensory: lasts only a few seconds.
- Retrieval from long-term memory may slow down with age.
- Basic intelligence remains stable, but chronic stress can lead to cognitive impairments.
Learning and Attention Span
- Learning abilities can remain intact; distractions and health may hinder this.
- Older adults experience reduced attention spans and may need to implement strategies for focus.
Physical Care of the Older Adult
- Skin: thinning epidermis increases injury risk; dry skin can lead to discomfort.
- Mucous Membranes: sensitive to environmental changes leading to irritation or rashes.
- Pressure ulcers risk increases due to poor circulation and immobility, necessitating vigilant nursing interventions.
Risk Factor and Nursing Intervention for Pressure Ulcers
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Immobility:
- Establish individualized turning schedules.
- Utilize assistive devices to reduce friction and shear damage.
- Elevate Head of Bed (HOB) as needed to promote comfort and circulation.
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Description
This quiz explores the fundamental aspects of gerontologic nursing, covering the significance of geriatrics and gerontology in healthcare. It emphasizes the role of nurses in caring for the elderly, developing care plans, and addressing age-related issues such as age discrimination. Test your understanding of the concepts related to aging and quality of life for older adults.
