Author Question: Infections are common acute conditions that demand prompt attention. A variety of factors can be ... (Read 23 times)

mp14 · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

Infections are common acute conditions that demand prompt attention. A variety of factors can be responsible for the high risk of infection in the elderly.

Gerontological nurses should suspect an infection when which of the following phenomena occurs? A) The patient displays reduced activity and lowered resistance.
B) Embolus and thrombus are diagnosed.
C) A lower body temperature causes atypical fever.
D) Any abrupt, unexplained change in physical or mental function is detected.

Question 2

In the aging process, older adults are able to

a. react to events immediately.
b. master new material quickly.
c. remember information from the immediate present (short-term memory).
d. learn new skills.

tandmlomax84 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
Feedback:
Not only do infections develop more easily in the elderly, but they also are more difficult to identify early because of altered symptomatology. That is, the atypical presentation of symptoms can complicate early identification and correction. Infection should be suspected whenever any abrupt, unexplained change in physical or mental function is detected in the elderly patient.

Answer to Question 2

D
Most older people possess the ability to learn, but the speed of learning is slowed. Short-term memory is more affected by aging than is long-term memory.