Author Question: A frail elderly client who has been a resident of a long-term care facility for 5 years has been ... (Read 175 times)

big1devin · **on:** Aug 2, 2018

A frail elderly client who has been a resident of a long-term care facility for 5 years has been admitted to the acute care setting. Which of the following symptoms would suggest to the nurse that a vitamin deficiency exists?

1. Frequent headaches behind the eyes
2. Confusion when awakened in the night
3. Muscle pain and weakness
4. Excessive thirst

Question 2

The nurse is doing discharge teaching with a client who has a diagnosis of colon cancer. The client asks if there is anything that he can do for the fatigue he feels. What would be the best response?

A) He should eat a big breakfast.
B) He should limit his physical activity.
C) He should limit his fluid intake.
D) He should drink caffeinated beverages.

welcom1000 · **Reply #1 on:** Aug 2, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3
Rationale: The frail elderly client who has been in a long-term care setting for many years is at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is synthesized during sun exposure or from adequate intake of fortified foods. The frail and elderly frequently do not have adequate food intake and do not spend much time outdoors. Signs of vitamin D deficiency are muscle pain and weakness, which may further compound the frailty. Headaches and thirst are not associated with vitamin deficiencies. The elderly who are not in a familiar setting may experience some confusion when awakened during the night, but it is not a sign of vitamin deficiency.

Answer to Question 2

A
Feedback:
Clients should be encouraged to eat a hearty breakfast because fatigue may worsen as the day progresses.