The nurse is planning an instructional session for an 80-year-old ...

[kodithompson]

The nurse is planning an instructional session for an 80-year-old client. Which of the following strategies would be helpful for the nurse to use? (Select all that apply.)
 
  1. Limit distractions.
  2. Use a well-lit room.
  3. Use verbal instructions and follow-up with written information to reinforce.
  4. Use computer-assisted instruction.
  5. Plan for one long session.
  6. Include a family member if possible.

Question 2

A client has a serum potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L. Which of the following should be done to assist this client? (Select all that apply.)
 
  1. Implement continuous cardiac monitoring.
  2. Check for an elevated ST segment.
  3. Assess muscle strength, tone, and reflexes.
  4. Monitor digoxin levels.
  5. Monitor for seizure activity.

[bdobbins]

Answer to Question 1

1, 2, 3, 6
Strategies to use when instructing an older client include limiting distractions, using a well-lit room, using verbal instructions with written information to reinforce instruction, and including a family member if possible. Computer-assisted instruction and planning for a long session are not strategies to use when instructing an older adult client.

Answer to Question 2

1, 3, 4
Interventions for a patient with hypokalemia are continuous cardiac monitoring; assessing for flattening T-waves; monitoring for digoxin toxicity, which may cause dysrhythmias; and assessing muscle strength, tone, and reflexes. Seizure activity is a sign of a sodium imbalance.