Introduction to Gerontologic Nursing
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Questions and Answers

What process can lead to somatic DNA damage?

  • Increased cellular repair mechanisms
  • Natural cellular functions
  • Aging without environmental factors
  • Stress, alcohol intake, and smoking (correct)

    • Which of the following is a biological theory of aging?

  • Programmed Theory (correct)
  • Cognitive Theory
  • Social Learning Theory
  • Behavioral Theory

    • Which lifestyle modification can contribute to healthy aging?

  • Reduced physical activity
  • Increased sun exposure
  • Vitamin supplementation (C and E) (correct)
  • Excessive alcohol intake

    • What does Jung's theory of individualism primarily focus on?

    <p>The balance between introversion and extroversion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Erikson's theory, what is generativity?

    <p>A sense of care and responsibility for others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What may result from an inability to achieve generativity, according to Erikson?

    <p>Restlessness and isolation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant factor that differentiates aging from disease?

    <p>Aging does not necessarily lead to disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is included in the psychological theory of aging?

    <p>Behavioral and developmental changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the focus of gerontology nursing?

    <p>Educating patients on well-being and quality of life</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What classification corresponds to the 'middle old' category in geriatric patients?

    <p>75-84 years old</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theory postulates that aging is controlled by the immune system?

    <p>Immunologic Theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors does NOT contribute to increased life expectancy?

    <p>Increased mortality rates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the 'Wear and Tear Theory' primarily concerned with?

    <p>Cumulative damage from environmental assaults</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which age group is considered 'very old frail elderly' according to classification?

    <p>85 years and above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The accumulation of cross-linked proteins damaging cells and tissues is known as what?

    <p>Cross-Link Theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'senescence' refer to?

    <p>Changes in behavior with age resulting in decreased survival</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most common change in the sense of taste and smell in older adults?

    <p>Xerostomia (dry mouth)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which health-promoting strategy is recommended for enhancing communication with older adults who may have hearing loss?

    <p>Enunciating words clearly and using nonverbal cues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key principle in preventing pressure ulcers?

    <p>Provide nutritional support and monitor wound condition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a possible psychological change in older adults influenced by sensory impairments?

    <p>Feelings of depression and social isolation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of reduced vestibular sensitivity in older adults?

    <p>Decreased ability to perceive motion changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement regarding the changes to personality in older adults is accurate?

    <p>Personality usually remains stable throughout aging</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common visual complaint among older adults?

    <p>Blurriness and difficulty with glare</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which change in auditory function is often observed in older adults?

    <p>Narrowing of the auditory canal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant change in the skin of older adults that increases the risk of injuries?

    <p>Thinning of the epidermal layer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a cause of rashes and skin irritation in older adults?

    <p>Increased hydration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factors increase the risk of pressure ulcers in older adults?

    <p>Altered level of consciousness and fecal incontinence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which nursing intervention is recommended for reducing the risk of pressure ulcers due to immobility?

    <p>Reduce shear and friction by using trapeze and turning sheet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom can result from dry skin in older adults?

    Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily influences the rigidity often observed in older persons?

    <p>Physical and mental limitations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of memory lasts only a few seconds and is obtained through sensory organs?

    <p>Sensory Memory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can older adults improve age-related forgetfulness?

    <p>By using memory aids like mnemonic devices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What remains the same regardless of age concerning intelligence?

    <p>Basic intelligence is maintained</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can interfere with an older person's ability to learn?

    <p>Motivation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a noted change in attention span among older adults?

    <p>Decreased vigilance performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does chronic psychological stress associate with in older adults?

    <p>Increased incidence of mild cognitive impairment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is typically more difficult for older adults when acquiring new habits?

    <p>Unlearning existing habits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant risk associated with the thinning of the epidermal layer in older adults?

    <p>Increased risk for traumatic injuries</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors can cause skin rashes and irritation in older adults, aside from dryness?

    <p>Use of certain medications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary nursing intervention for preventing pressure ulcers in immobile older adults?

    <p>Establish an individualized turning schedule</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about dry skin in older adults is true?

    <p>It often results in itching (pruritus) and further complications.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What specific group of older adults is at an increased risk for developing pressure ulcers?

    <p>Those with compromised circulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    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 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

    • 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.

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