A nurse is assessing coping in older women in a support group for ...

[CQXA]

A nurse is assessing coping in older women in a support group for recent widows. Which statement by a participant best indicates potential for successful coping?
 
  a. I have had the same best friend for decades.
  b. I think I am coping very well on my own.
  c. My kids come to see me every weekend.
  d. Oh, I have lots of friends at the senior center.

Question 2

A home health care nurse has conducted a home safety assessment for an older adult. There are five concrete steps leading out from the front door. Which intervention would be most helpful in keeping the older adult safe on the steps?
 
  a. Have the client use a walker or cane on the steps.
  b. Install contrasting color strips at the edge of each step.
  c. Instruct the client to use the garage door instead.
  d. Tell the client to use a two-footed gait on the steps.

[britb2u]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Friendship and support enhance coping. The quality of the relationship is what is most important, however. People who have close, intimate, stable relationships with others in whom they confide are more likely to cope with crisis.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
As a person ages, he or she may experience a decreased sense of touch. The older adult may not be aware of where his or her foot is on the step. Installing contrasting color strips at the end of each step will help increase awareness. If the client does not need an assistive device, he or she should not use one just on stairs. Using an alternative door may be necessary but does not address making the front steps safer. A two-footed gait may not help if the client is unaware of where the foot is on the step.