A patient is experiencing dizziness and disequilibrium with head ...

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A patient is experiencing dizziness and disequilibrium with head movements. For which problem should the nurse plan care?
 
  1. imbalanced fluids
  2. difficulty adjusting to life changes
  3. problems with coping
  4. potential to fall

Question 2

Before assessing an older adult patient, the nurse reviews the age-related changes in the ear. (See accompanying box.) After the assessment, the nurse recognizes which priority concern related to the finding of vestibular degeneration?
 
  1. skin breakdown
  2. fall prevention
  3. nausea
  4. low night vision

[leannegxo]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Dizziness and disequilibrium are caused by changes within the vestibule and semicircular canals of the inner ear, which give the sensation of starting, stopping, and head position in relation to gravitational pull. Dizziness and disequilibrium create a risk for potential injury from falling because of loss of balance. Not enough information is given in the question to determine whether the symptoms of dizziness and disequilibrium are due to a fluid imbalance. It is unlikely that adjustment difficulties or coping problems are caused by dizziness and disequilibrium with head movements.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
Degeneration and atrophy of inner ear structures involved in balance and equilibrium, such as the vestibule, increase the risk for falls. Skin breakdown and nausea are not consequences of age-related changes that may occur in the ear. Reduced night vision is an age-related change in the eyes.

[drink]

TYSM

[chereeb]

Excellent