NU176 | NU 176 Geriatric Nursing Midterm v2 |
Questions with Correct Answers and Expert
Explanation for Each Question | Galen
1. Which theory of aging suggests that aging is a result of accumulated damage to cells
and tissues from repeated use over time?
A. Free Radical Theory
B. Wear and Tear Theory
C. Programmed Theory
D. Continuity Theory
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The Wear and Tear Theory posits that the body is like a
machine that eventually fails due to repeated use and stressors. This stochastic
theory emphasizes that environmental damage and internal biological stressors
contribute to functional decline. It assumes that if we could minimize these stresses,
the lifespan of the machine might be extended.
2. When communicating with an elderly patient who has presbycusis, which nursing
intervention is most effective?
A. Shouting directly into the patient’s ear
B. Facing the patient and speaking in a low-frequency tone
,C. Speaking in a higher-pitched voice
D. Using complex medical terminology to ensure accuracy
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Presbycusis involves the loss of high-frequency hearing,
making it difficult for older adults to hear high-pitched sounds. Speaking in a lower-
pitched, clear voice while facing the patient allows them to use visual cues and hear
better. Shouting actually distorts sound and can be interpreted as aggression or
impatience.
3. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, what is the primary task of the older
adult?
A. Generativity vs. Stagnation
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Integrity vs. Despair
D. Trust vs. Mistrust
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Erikson identified Integrity vs. Despair as the central conflict
for adults aged 65 and older. This stage involves reflecting on life and feeling a sense
,of satisfaction and completion rather than regret. Achieving integrity helps the
individual face the end of life with wisdom and peace.
4. Which of the following is considered an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL)?
A. Bathing
B. Dressing
C. Toileting
D. Managing finances
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: IADLs are more complex tasks necessary for living
independently in the community, such as managing money, shopping, or using a
telephone. Standard ADLs, such as bathing and dressing, focus on basic self-care and
personal hygiene. Assessing both is critical to determine the level of support an
elderly person requires.
5. An elderly patient suddenly becomes confused, agitated, and has difficulty focusing.
What is the most likely condition?
A. Depression
B. Dementia
C. Delirium
, D. Normal aging
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Delirium is characterized by an acute, rapid onset of confusion
and fluctuating levels of consciousness. Unlike dementia, which is progressive and
irreversible, delirium is often caused by an underlying medical issue like infection or
dehydration. It is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate
assessment to identify the reversible cause.
6. Which physiological change in the elderly increases the risk for drug toxicity?
A. Decreased liver mass and blood flow
B. Increased glomerular filtration rate
C. Increased total body water
D. Decreased body fat percentage
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Aging leads to reduced liver size and blood flow, which slows
down the metabolism of medications. This reduction means drugs stay in the system
longer, increasing the risk of adverse reactions and toxicity. Nurses must monitor
dosage levels closely in geriatric patients for this reason.
Questions with Correct Answers and Expert
Explanation for Each Question | Galen
1. Which theory of aging suggests that aging is a result of accumulated damage to cells
and tissues from repeated use over time?
A. Free Radical Theory
B. Wear and Tear Theory
C. Programmed Theory
D. Continuity Theory
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The Wear and Tear Theory posits that the body is like a
machine that eventually fails due to repeated use and stressors. This stochastic
theory emphasizes that environmental damage and internal biological stressors
contribute to functional decline. It assumes that if we could minimize these stresses,
the lifespan of the machine might be extended.
2. When communicating with an elderly patient who has presbycusis, which nursing
intervention is most effective?
A. Shouting directly into the patient’s ear
B. Facing the patient and speaking in a low-frequency tone
,C. Speaking in a higher-pitched voice
D. Using complex medical terminology to ensure accuracy
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Presbycusis involves the loss of high-frequency hearing,
making it difficult for older adults to hear high-pitched sounds. Speaking in a lower-
pitched, clear voice while facing the patient allows them to use visual cues and hear
better. Shouting actually distorts sound and can be interpreted as aggression or
impatience.
3. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, what is the primary task of the older
adult?
A. Generativity vs. Stagnation
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Integrity vs. Despair
D. Trust vs. Mistrust
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Erikson identified Integrity vs. Despair as the central conflict
for adults aged 65 and older. This stage involves reflecting on life and feeling a sense
,of satisfaction and completion rather than regret. Achieving integrity helps the
individual face the end of life with wisdom and peace.
4. Which of the following is considered an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL)?
A. Bathing
B. Dressing
C. Toileting
D. Managing finances
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: IADLs are more complex tasks necessary for living
independently in the community, such as managing money, shopping, or using a
telephone. Standard ADLs, such as bathing and dressing, focus on basic self-care and
personal hygiene. Assessing both is critical to determine the level of support an
elderly person requires.
5. An elderly patient suddenly becomes confused, agitated, and has difficulty focusing.
What is the most likely condition?
A. Depression
B. Dementia
C. Delirium
, D. Normal aging
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Delirium is characterized by an acute, rapid onset of confusion
and fluctuating levels of consciousness. Unlike dementia, which is progressive and
irreversible, delirium is often caused by an underlying medical issue like infection or
dehydration. It is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate
assessment to identify the reversible cause.
6. Which physiological change in the elderly increases the risk for drug toxicity?
A. Decreased liver mass and blood flow
B. Increased glomerular filtration rate
C. Increased total body water
D. Decreased body fat percentage
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Aging leads to reduced liver size and blood flow, which slows
down the metabolism of medications. This reduction means drugs stay in the system
longer, increasing the risk of adverse reactions and toxicity. Nurses must monitor
dosage levels closely in geriatric patients for this reason.
