The nurse is conducting a health fair for older adults. Which ...

[lunatika]

The nurse is conducting a health fair for older adults. Which statement is true regarding vital sign measurements in aging adults?
 
  a. The pulse is more difficult to palpate because of the stiffness of the blood vessels.
  b. An increased respiratory rate and a shallower inspiratory phase are expected findings.
  c. A decreased pulse pressure occurs from changes in the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
  d. Changes in the body's temperature regulatory mechanism leave the older person more likely to develop a fever.

Question 2

A 4-month-old child is at the clinic for a well-baby check-up and immunizations. Which of these actions is most appropriate when the nurse is assessing an infant's vital signs?
 
  a. The infant's radial pulse should be palpated, and the nurse should notice any fluctuations resulting from activity or exercise.
  b. The nurse should auscultate an apical rate for 1 minute and then assess for any normal irregularities, such as sinus arrhythmia. c.
  The infant's blood pressure should be assessed by using a stethoscope with a large diaphragm piece to hear the soft muffled Korotkoff sounds.
  d. The infant's chest should be observed and the respiratory rate counted for 1 minute; the respiratory pattern may vary significantly.

[ryrychapman11]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Aging causes a decrease in vital capacity and decreased inspiratory reserve volume. The examiner may notice a shallower inspiratory phase and an increased respiratory rate. An increase in the rigidity of the arterial walls makes the pulse actually easier to palpate. Pulse pressure is widened in older adults, and changes in the body temperature regulatory mechanism leave the older person less likely to have fever but at a greater risk for hypothermia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The nurse palpates or auscultates an apical rate with infants and toddlers. The pulse should be counted for 1 full minute to account for normal irregularities, such as sinus arrhythmia. Children younger than 3 years of age have such small arm vessels; consequently, hearing Korotkoff sounds with a stethoscope is difficult. The nurse should use either an electronic blood pressure device that uses oscillometry or a Doppler ultrasound device to amplify the sounds.

[lunatika]

Thank you

[ryrychapman11]

No problemo