Author Question: The nurse caring for older patients would prepare to administer which medication as a short-term ... (Read 54 times)

justinmsk · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

The nurse caring for older patients would prepare to administer which medication as a short-term sleep aid?

a. Diazepam (Valium)
b. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
c. Chloral hydrate (Somnote)
d. The nurse would try other measures first

Question 2

The nurse caring for a cognitively impaired older adult admitted to an acute care facility best minimizes this particular patient's risk for developing a nosocomial infection by

a. proper hand washing after each patient contact.
b. admitting the patient to a private room.
c. assigning staff to assist the patient with eating meals.
d. screening visitors to minimize contract with pathogens.

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

Answer to Question 1

D
Benzodiazepines, hypnotics, and antihistamines all have serious side effects when taken by the older population. Especially in the confused patient, the nurse should try other comfort measures first, like sticking to an established nighttime routine to cue the patient to bedtime.

Answer to Question 2

C
Poor nutrition can contribute to a patient's risks for developing a nosocomial infection, particu-larly among the older immunocompromised population. Many of the cognitively impaired older adults are already malnourished, so improving nutrition is a priority. Hand washing should occur before and after patient contact. A private room is not necessary. Screening visitors is not the best option; good nutrition will improve the patient's immune status, although obviously ill visi-tors should not visit.