Geriatric Nursing MCQ Questions & Answers!

The term geriatric refers to adult patients who are 65 or older. This term is used to describe individuals who are in the later stages of life and may require specialized medical care and attention due to age-related health issues. Geriatric patients may have unique needs and challenges that healthcare providers must consider when developing treatment plans and providing care.

While delirium, a state of acute confusion and altered mental status, is common in older adults, it is often reversible if the underlying cause is identified and addressed. Causes can include medication side effects, infections, dehydration, or metabolic imbalances. However, delirium can also be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition or a complication of hospitalization. It's crucial for geriatric nurses to recognize and assess delirium promptly, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term cognitive decline.

Older adults who do not live in institutions typically have multiple chronic conditions, which often require them to take multiple medications daily. The range of 4-5 medications per day is a reasonable average for this population, considering the prevalence of chronic diseases and the need for medication management.

Person-centered care recognizes the individuality of each older adult, valuing their unique needs, preferences, and life experiences. It emphasizes respecting their autonomy and involving them in decision-making about their care. This approach promotes dignity, well-being, and a sense of control for older adults, fostering a more positive and empowering healthcare experience.

As people age, kidney function naturally declines. This can affect the body's ability to filter and eliminate medications, potentially leading to drug accumulation and increased risk of side effects. While the other options may also occur with aging, they are less directly related to medication absorption: decreased gastric motility can slow absorption, increased body fat can affect drug distribution, and decreased liver function can impair drug metabolism. However, decreased kidney function has the most significant impact on medication elimination and the potential for adverse drug reactions in older adults.

Many medications commonly prescribed to older adults can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure, increasing the risk of falls. While the other options promote safety and reduce fall risk, medication side effects are a significant contributing factor to falls in the elderly. It's crucial for nurses to assess medication regimens and educate patients about potential fall risks associated with their medications.

Men 65 and older have the highest rate of depression and suicide. This could be due to various factors such as social isolation, loss of spouse or loved ones, physical health issues, and limited access to mental health resources. Older men may also be less likely to seek help or talk about their emotions, leading to higher rates of depression and suicide.

While many older adults maintain active social lives and strong support systems, social isolation and loneliness can be significant challenges for some. This can be due to factors like the loss of loved ones, decreased mobility, or health conditions that limit social interaction. The other options are common challenges associated with aging: decreased mobility and balance can increase fall risk, cognitive decline can affect memory and daily functioning, and chronic health conditions often require managing multiple medications (polypharmacy), which can be complex and increase the risk of adverse drug reactions.

Delirium typically has an acute onset, meaning it develops suddenly, and it often fluctuates throughout the day. In contrast, dementia has a gradual onset and a chronic, progressive course. The other options are characteristic of delirium: fluctuating mental status, inattention, disorganized thinking, and changes in psychomotor activity (either hyperactive or hypoactive).

When communicating with an older adult with hearing loss, it's essential to face them directly, ensuring your lips are visible, and speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Avoid using complex medical terminology or shouting, as this can distort speech and make it harder to understand. Nonverbal cues like gestures and facial expressions can also enhance communication and comprehension.