Al Granger, 75 years old, has a history of chronic alcohol abuse. ...

[Deast7027]

Al Granger, 75 years old, has a history of chronic alcohol abuse. Which of the following statements would best describe his physical status?
 
  a. Compromised dietary intake and nutritional status
  b. Inappropriate weight gain
  c. Inability to participate in any physical exer-cise program
  d. Intact cognition and problem-solving ability

Question 2

Which of the following is not a serious side effect related to excessive laxative use?
 
  a. Inhibited absorption of nutrients
  b. Fluid and electrolyte imbalance
  c. Atonic bowel with chronic constipation
  d. Daily bowel movements

[nixon_s]

Answer to Question 1

A
The physiological and socioeconomic effects of chronic alcohol use negatively affect the older adult's dietary practices and nutritional status. Alcohol abuse would contribute to weight loss rather than gain (response B) and is often cited as a causative factor of cognitive impairment (response D). All older adults need to participate in a physical exercise program that promotes their highest level of function.

Answer to Question 2

D
The desire for a daily bowel movement is often the reason that an older adult uses laxatives. The expectation to have a daily bowel movement often is unrealistic because of the older person's decreased food intake and decreased physical exercise. A daily bowel movement is not a serious complication of laxative use, however. Because a laxative accelerates the movement of stool through the digestive system, it can decrease the time available to absorb nutrients and water in the small and large intestines and cause dumping of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals (responses A and B). An atonic bowel that is unable to move feces adequately through the large intestine can be caused by overuse of laxatives (response C).