Gerontology HESI Practice questions with correct answers

A frail, elderly client is admitted to the unit with a diagnosis of pneumonia. Which finding is most important for the registered nurse (RN) to report to the healthcare provider? A. Fever and chills B. Confusion and dehydration C. Crackles in the lung fields D. Nausea and vomiting correct answer B. Confusion and dehydration Rationale: Confusion and dehydration (B) are findings of inadequate oxygenation and perfusion in this frail elderly client. (A), (C) and (D) are all common with pneumonia, but the most important finding is confusion and evidence of dehydration, which require treatment for this frail elderly client. A frail elderly couple asks the registered nurse (RN) if they have to watch their salt intake because food does not taste as good as it used to so they have to season most foods. What information should the RN offer the couple? A. Boredom may influence how the taste of food is perceived, and different seasonings can stimulate taste. B. With age, an increase in sodium intake is needed to compensate for a decrease in renal function. C. Short-term memory loss and confusion may be the reason they want to over-season their food. D. Taste buds often are dull due to atrophy so older clients should use other seasonings instead of salt. correct answer D. Taste buds are often dull due to atrophy so older clients should use other seasonings instead of salt. Rationale: Taste buds atrophy with normal aging, which influences an older client's sensitivity to taste and is often compensated for the use of stronger tasting seasonings. (A), (B), and (C) are not normal aging processes related to taste.