NUR257 Chronic Aging Exam 1 2026/2027 Questions and Correct
Answers with Rationale | Newest Update | Galen College of Nursing
1. Which theory of aging suggests that the body is much like a machine which
functions at peak performance during the early years but begins to wear down
over time due to use?
A. Wear and Tear Theory
B. Free Radical Theory
C. Cross-linkage Theory
D. Programmed Theory
Answer: A
Expert Rationale: The Wear and Tear Theory posits that cells and tissues simply wear out
from repeated use, damage, and stress over time.
2. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, what is the primary task for the
older adult?
A. Generativity vs. Stagnation
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Trust vs. Mistrust
D. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
Answer: D
,Expert Rationale: Ego Integrity vs. Despair is the final stage of Erikson’s theory, occurring
in late adulthood, where individuals reflect on their life accomplishments.
3. When communicating with an older adult who has a hearing impairment
(presbycusis), which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A. Shout directly into the patient’s ear
B. Face the patient and speak clearly in a normal to low tone
C. Speak in a high-pitched voice
D. Exaggerate mouth movements to help with lip-reading
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: Older adults with presbycusis lose the ability to hear high-frequency
sounds; facing them and speaking in lower tones helps clarity.
4. The nurse is reviewing the Beers Criteria. What is the primary purpose of this
tool?
A. To assess the cognitive function of patients with dementia
B. To calculate the correct dosage for pediatric patients
C. To identify medications that are potentially inappropriate for older adults
D. To measure the physical mobility of elderly residents
Answer: C
Expert Rationale: The Beers Criteria provides a list of medications that should be avoided
or used with caution in the elderly due to increased risks of adverse effects.
, 5. Which of the following is considered an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living
(IADL)?
A. Bathing
B. Managing finances
C. Toileting
D. Feeding oneself
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: IADLs are more complex tasks necessary for living independently, such
as managing finances, shopping, or using a phone; ADLs are basic self-care tasks.
6. An older adult presents with sudden onset confusion, fluctuating levels of
consciousness, and disturbed sleep-wake cycles. Which condition should the
nurse suspect?
A. Alzheimer’s Disease
B. Delirium
C. Vascular Dementia
D. Normal aging
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: Delirium is characterized by an acute, sudden onset of confusion and is
often reversible if the underlying cause is treated.
Answers with Rationale | Newest Update | Galen College of Nursing
1. Which theory of aging suggests that the body is much like a machine which
functions at peak performance during the early years but begins to wear down
over time due to use?
A. Wear and Tear Theory
B. Free Radical Theory
C. Cross-linkage Theory
D. Programmed Theory
Answer: A
Expert Rationale: The Wear and Tear Theory posits that cells and tissues simply wear out
from repeated use, damage, and stress over time.
2. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, what is the primary task for the
older adult?
A. Generativity vs. Stagnation
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Trust vs. Mistrust
D. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
Answer: D
,Expert Rationale: Ego Integrity vs. Despair is the final stage of Erikson’s theory, occurring
in late adulthood, where individuals reflect on their life accomplishments.
3. When communicating with an older adult who has a hearing impairment
(presbycusis), which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A. Shout directly into the patient’s ear
B. Face the patient and speak clearly in a normal to low tone
C. Speak in a high-pitched voice
D. Exaggerate mouth movements to help with lip-reading
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: Older adults with presbycusis lose the ability to hear high-frequency
sounds; facing them and speaking in lower tones helps clarity.
4. The nurse is reviewing the Beers Criteria. What is the primary purpose of this
tool?
A. To assess the cognitive function of patients with dementia
B. To calculate the correct dosage for pediatric patients
C. To identify medications that are potentially inappropriate for older adults
D. To measure the physical mobility of elderly residents
Answer: C
Expert Rationale: The Beers Criteria provides a list of medications that should be avoided
or used with caution in the elderly due to increased risks of adverse effects.
, 5. Which of the following is considered an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living
(IADL)?
A. Bathing
B. Managing finances
C. Toileting
D. Feeding oneself
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: IADLs are more complex tasks necessary for living independently, such
as managing finances, shopping, or using a phone; ADLs are basic self-care tasks.
6. An older adult presents with sudden onset confusion, fluctuating levels of
consciousness, and disturbed sleep-wake cycles. Which condition should the
nurse suspect?
A. Alzheimer’s Disease
B. Delirium
C. Vascular Dementia
D. Normal aging
Answer: B
Expert Rationale: Delirium is characterized by an acute, sudden onset of confusion and is
often reversible if the underlying cause is treated.
