NUR255 Exam 1 V2 | NUR 255 Aging &
Mental Health Nursing Exam Q&A | Galen
College of Nursing
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This study guide is intended to provide comprehensive preparation for aging and mental health
nursing examinations by focusing on elderly patient care, psychological wellness in aging, and
evidence-based geriatric interventions. The content reflects practical nursing concepts
frequently tested in gerontological nursing assessments.
This version contains realistic exam-style questions designed to strengthen understanding of
aging disorders, mental health promotion, and geriatric nursing management strategies. Detailed
expert explanations support deeper understanding and practical clinical application.
════════════════════════════════════
The Exam Covers:
• Psychosocial aspects of aging
• Older adult health assessment
• Age-related sensory changes
• Stress and coping in elderly patients
• Therapeutic relationships in geriatric care
• Mental wellness promotion
• Communication barriers in aging
• Patient safety for older adults
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1. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, which challenge is most characteristic of the
older adult population?
A. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Generativity vs. Stagnation
,D. Intimacy vs. Isolation
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Ego Integrity vs. Despair is the final stage of Erikson’s psychosocial
development theory, occurring in late adulthood. During this phase, individuals reflect on
their lives and either feel a sense of fulfillment or regret. Nursing care should focus on
helping patients achieve a sense of integrity through reminiscence and life review.
2. Which age-related sensory change is most likely to contribute to social isolation in an
elderly patient?
A. Presbycusis
B. Presbyopia
C. Decreased tactile sensitivity
D. Anosmia
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, often leads to difficulties in
following conversations, especially in noisy environments. This communication barrier
frequently causes older adults to withdraw from social situations to avoid embarrassment
or frustration. Nurses should assess for hearing loss and encourage the use of assistive
devices to maintain social engagement.
, 3. When assessing an older adult, the nurse notes the patient uses ‘elderspeak.’ Why is this
communication style considered a barrier?
A. It increases the patient’s cognitive processing speed
B. It is the most effective way to communicate with patients who have dementia
C. It reinforces negative stereotypes and diminishes self-esteem
D. It helps the patient understand complex medical terminology
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Elderspeak involves using simplified vocabulary, high-pitched tones,
and slow speech, which can come across as patronizing. This style of communication
reinforces ageist stereotypes and can make the patient feel incompetent or infantilized.
Effective geriatric nursing requires maintaining a professional and respectful tone that
acknowledges the patient’s adult status.
4. An elderly patient is being screened for depression. Which tool is most appropriate for this
specific population?
A. PHQ-9
B. CAGE questionnaire
C. Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE)
D. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)
Correct Answer: D
Mental Health Nursing Exam Q&A | Galen
College of Nursing
────────────────────────────────────
This study guide is intended to provide comprehensive preparation for aging and mental health
nursing examinations by focusing on elderly patient care, psychological wellness in aging, and
evidence-based geriatric interventions. The content reflects practical nursing concepts
frequently tested in gerontological nursing assessments.
This version contains realistic exam-style questions designed to strengthen understanding of
aging disorders, mental health promotion, and geriatric nursing management strategies. Detailed
expert explanations support deeper understanding and practical clinical application.
════════════════════════════════════
The Exam Covers:
• Psychosocial aspects of aging
• Older adult health assessment
• Age-related sensory changes
• Stress and coping in elderly patients
• Therapeutic relationships in geriatric care
• Mental wellness promotion
• Communication barriers in aging
• Patient safety for older adults
════════════════════════════════════
1. According to Erikson’s developmental stages, which challenge is most characteristic of the
older adult population?
A. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
B. Identity vs. Role Confusion
C. Generativity vs. Stagnation
,D. Intimacy vs. Isolation
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Ego Integrity vs. Despair is the final stage of Erikson’s psychosocial
development theory, occurring in late adulthood. During this phase, individuals reflect on
their lives and either feel a sense of fulfillment or regret. Nursing care should focus on
helping patients achieve a sense of integrity through reminiscence and life review.
2. Which age-related sensory change is most likely to contribute to social isolation in an
elderly patient?
A. Presbycusis
B. Presbyopia
C. Decreased tactile sensitivity
D. Anosmia
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, often leads to difficulties in
following conversations, especially in noisy environments. This communication barrier
frequently causes older adults to withdraw from social situations to avoid embarrassment
or frustration. Nurses should assess for hearing loss and encourage the use of assistive
devices to maintain social engagement.
, 3. When assessing an older adult, the nurse notes the patient uses ‘elderspeak.’ Why is this
communication style considered a barrier?
A. It increases the patient’s cognitive processing speed
B. It is the most effective way to communicate with patients who have dementia
C. It reinforces negative stereotypes and diminishes self-esteem
D. It helps the patient understand complex medical terminology
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Elderspeak involves using simplified vocabulary, high-pitched tones,
and slow speech, which can come across as patronizing. This style of communication
reinforces ageist stereotypes and can make the patient feel incompetent or infantilized.
Effective geriatric nursing requires maintaining a professional and respectful tone that
acknowledges the patient’s adult status.
4. An elderly patient is being screened for depression. Which tool is most appropriate for this
specific population?
A. PHQ-9
B. CAGE questionnaire
C. Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE)
D. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)
Correct Answer: D
