The nurse is caring for a frail older adult client who is ...

[bio_gurl]

The nurse is caring for a frail older adult client who is admitted to the hospital after falling. The client has been living alone independently and appears reluctant to accept assistance.
 
  The nurse recognizes that the client's reluctance to accept assistance is most likely caused by fear of
 
  a. inability to pay for services.
  b. additional financial burden on the family.
  c. relinquishing independent living.
  d. loss of privacy.

Question 2

When assessing an older adult client, the nurse recognizes the client has a significant hearing loss. The most appropriate intervention by the nurse is to
 
  a. introduce herself first.
  b. shout into the client's good ear.
  c. repeat words the client doesn't understand.
  d. check the hearing aid batteries.

[HandsomeMarc]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The nurse may need to directly observe environmental supports, bearing in mind that a potential association exists in the older adult's mind between accepting help and relinquishing independent living.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Adaptive strategies for hearing loss include helping older adults adjust hearing aids. Older adults lack fine-motor dexterity and may not be able to insert aids correctly to amplify hearing. The nurse should make sure hearing aids are turned on. If difficulties persist, the nurse should check the batteries. Adaptive strategies for hearing loss also include addressing the person by name before beginning to speak (it focuses attention) and speaking slowly and distinctly. If the nurse's voice is high pitched, the nurse should lower it and rephrase rather than repeat words if the older adult doesn't understand certain words.