Author Question: Which of the following statements are true of common neurological changes in older adults? Select ... (Read 59 times)

lracut11 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Which of the following statements are true of common neurological changes in older adults? Select all that apply.

a. Older adults have a slower reaction and a decreased ability for rapid problem-solving.
b. With advanced age, the number of functioning neurons decreases.
c. Neurological deficits may be attributed to medications or medication interactions.
d. With normal aging, long-term memory and the ability to discriminate decrease.

Question 2

Which of the following principles apply when performing a focused assessment of the abdomen? Select all that apply.

a. Ask the patient to empty his bladder prior to the assessment.
b. Follow the assessment sequence of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.
c. Position the patient in supine position with knees slightly flexed.
d. Begin palpating with light pressure to detect surface characteristics and move to deep palpation.

fromAlphatoOmega22 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A, B, C
With advanced age, changes commonly observed are slower reaction time, decreased ability for rapid problem-solving, and slower voluntary movement. The number of functioning neurons decreases. However, intelligence, long-term memory, and discrimination do not change with normal aging. Neurological deficits in older adults are usually the result of adverse effects of medication or medication interactions, nutritional deficits, dehydration, cardiovascular changes that alter cerebral blood flow, diabetes, degenerative neurological condition, alcohol or drug use, depression, or abuse.

Answer to Question 2

A, C, D
The nurse should ask the patient to empty his bladder prior to the examination to promote comfort. The patient is also positioned supine with flexed knees, further promoting comfort and relaxing the abdominal muscles. Begin with light pressure to detect surface characteristics. Then move to deep palpation to assess the underlying structures. The skills used in physical examination include inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation, and sometimes olfaction. These skills are performed in the above order, with one exception: When performing an abdominal assessment, perform auscultation before percussion and palpation to avoid disturbing the abdominal sounds.