The nurse caring for an older patient with influenza emphasizes ...

[mwit1967]

The nurse caring for an older patient with influenza emphasizes the importance of drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest to prevent the development of complications.
 
  What physiological changes is the nurse most concerned about in this patient?
  Select all that apply.
 
  1. reduced thirst reflex
  2. altered hypothalamic response
  3. increased residual lung volume
  4. reduced effectiveness of cough
  5. muted chemoreceptors in the aortic arch

Question 2

The nurse is preparing discharge instructions for a patient recovering from a rhinoplasty. What should the nurse include in these instructions?
 
  Select all that apply.
 
  1. Apply ice to the nose.
  2. Restrict oral fluid intake.
  3. Avoid vigorous coughing.
  4. Elevate the head of the bed on blocks.
  5. Expect eye bruising for several weeks

[IAPPLET]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3, 4
Influenza is clearly linked to an increased risk for pneumonia, particularly in older adults. Changes in respiratory function associated with aging, including reduced effectiveness of cough and increased residual lung volume, pose little risk in the healthy older adult but greatly increase the risk for pneumonia associated with influenza. Older patients may experience a change in thirst; however, this is not a reason the nurse is concerned about the development of complications from influenza in this patient. There is no evidence that the hypothalamic response is altered or that chemoreceptors in the aortic arch are muted in older patients.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 3, 4
Following rhinoplasty, the patient should be instructed to apply ice packs to the nose to relieve discomfort and reduce swelling; elevate the head of the bed on blocks to reduce local edema; avoid vigorous coughing, which may cause bleeding; and increase fluid intake to reduce oral dryness due to mouth breathing. Bruising around the eyes and nose will last for several days, not weeks.