,
, NU176 Geriatric Nursing Exam 3 | Questions &
Answers | Older Adult Care, Safety, Chronic
Conditions & Nursing Priorities | 2026/2027
update.-galen.
Section 1: Normal Aging & Physiological Changes
(Questions 1–10)
1. What is the primary physiological change that contributes to the
increased risk of hypothermia in older adults?
A) Decreased subcutaneous fat and reduced metabolic rate
B) Increased peripheral vasodilation and sweating
C) Enhanced thermoregulatory response to cold
D) Increased basal metabolic rate and muscle mass
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Aging is associated with a loss of subcutaneous fat, which
provides insulation, and a decrease in metabolic rate, which reduces heat
production. These changes impair the body's ability to maintain core
temperature in cold environments. The other options describe changes not
typically seen in normal aging .
Source: NU 176 Exam 3 - Geriatric Nursing (2026) Galen College of Nursing
2. A nurse is assessing an older adult's skin turgor. Which finding
would be considered a normal age-related change rather than a sign
of dehydration?
A) Skin that tents and remains elevated for several seconds
B) Reduced skin elasticity on the dorsal aspect of the hand
C) Skin that is warm, moist, and intact
D) Presence of dry, scaly patches on the extremities
, NU176 Geriatric Nursing Exam 3 | Questions &
Answers | Older Adult Care, Safety, Chronic
Conditions & Nursing Priorities | 2026/2027
update.-galen.
Section 1: Normal Aging & Physiological Changes
(Questions 1–10)
1. What is the primary physiological change that contributes to the
increased risk of hypothermia in older adults?
A) Decreased subcutaneous fat and reduced metabolic rate
B) Increased peripheral vasodilation and sweating
C) Enhanced thermoregulatory response to cold
D) Increased basal metabolic rate and muscle mass
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Aging is associated with a loss of subcutaneous fat, which
provides insulation, and a decrease in metabolic rate, which reduces heat
production. These changes impair the body's ability to maintain core
temperature in cold environments. The other options describe changes not
typically seen in normal aging .
Source: NU 176 Exam 3 - Geriatric Nursing (2026) Galen College of Nursing
2. A nurse is assessing an older adult's skin turgor. Which finding
would be considered a normal age-related change rather than a sign
of dehydration?
A) Skin that tents and remains elevated for several seconds
B) Reduced skin elasticity on the dorsal aspect of the hand
C) Skin that is warm, moist, and intact
D) Presence of dry, scaly patches on the extremities
