Taking blood pressure readings while the older person is lying, ...

[stevenposner]

Taking blood pressure readings while the older person is lying, sitting, and standing
 
  a. Is unnecessary, unless the older person complains of chest pain
  b. Can assist in identifying orthostatic hypotension
  c. Is usually done only with a physician's order
  d. Can identify the cause of increased heart rate when the older person changes positions

Question 2

James Kelly, an 83-year-old patient, complains that he has been vomiting and had diarrhea for several days. He has a low-grade fever and seems to be sweating. What disorder should these symptoms lead you to consider first?
 
  a. Excess fluid buildup in the body
  b. Electrolyte imbalance
  c. Diabetes mellitus
  d. Edema

[kaykay69]

Answer to Question 1

B
A greater than 20 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure when an older person changes positions is referred to as orthostatic hypotension. This decrease in blood pressure can be related to dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, unsteadiness, and falls. These blood pressure readings can be done without a physician's order and are unrelated to complaints of chest pain. It is normal for the heart rate to increase when changing positions. It is the body's natural response to maintain blood pressure with positional changes.

Answer to Question 2

B
Vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive perspiration all lead to a loss of fluid and electrolytes in the body. This loss can result in changes in the balance of electrolytes in the body. Because electrolytes function in many diverse body systems, it is essential that they be kept in balance; if they are not, serious complications may result. Responses A and D, which refer to the same thing, would not result from the loss of fluid in vomiting and diarrhea. Response C, diabetes mellitus, would not be the first disorder you would think of when presented with the symptoms mentioned.