Ebersole And Hess' Toward Healthy Aging: Human Needs And Nursing Response, 9th Edition Test Bank
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Chapter 01: Health and Wellness in an Aging Society
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When asked by new parents what the life expectancy is for their African American newborn,
the nurse replies that, “2010 statistics indicate that your son:
a. will have a life expectancy of approximately 65 years.”
b. can realistically expect to live into his late 80s.”
c. has a good chance of celebrating his 75th birthday.”
d. is likely to live into his late 90s.”
ANS: C
In 2010, men in the United States at age 60 can expect to live another 22 years. The life
expectancy of African American men is about 4.7 years less than white men. Of the options
above, C is the only response that fits into those parameters. The other options are not
supported by reliable research.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A nurse is planning care for a group of super-centenarians in an assisted living facility. The
nurse considers which of the following?
a. Most super-centenarians are functionally independent or require minimal
assistance with activities of daily living
b. The majority of super-centenarians have cognitive impairment
c. The number of super-centenarians is expected to decrease in coming years as a
result of heart disease and stroke
d. It is theorized that super-centenarians survived as long as they have due to genetic
mutations that made them less susceptible to common diseases
ANS: A
Research supports that most super-centenarians are functionally and cognitively intact,
requiring minimal assistance with ADLs. The number of super-centenarians is expected to
increase in coming years as the number of older adults increases. The reason why individuals
survived as long as they have is not known.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 4
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. One reason why many “baby boomers” have multiple chronic conditions such as heart
disease, diabetes, and arthritis is that:
a. they have less access to medication and other treatment regimens.
b. there was a lack of importance placed on healthy living as they were growing up.
c. they did not have access to immunizations against communicable disease when
they were children.
d. they grew up in an era of rampant poverty and malnutrition.
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When asked by new parents what the life expectancy is for their African American newborn,
the nurse replies that, “2010 statistics indicate that your son:
a. will have a life expectancy of approximately 65 years.”
b. can realistically expect to live into his late 80s.”
c. has a good chance of celebrating his 75th birthday.”
d. is likely to live into his late 90s.”
ANS: C
In 2010, men in the United States at age 60 can expect to live another 22 years. The life
expectancy of African American men is about 4.7 years less than white men. Of the options
above, C is the only response that fits into those parameters. The other options are not
supported by reliable research.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A nurse is planning care for a group of super-centenarians in an assisted living facility. The
nurse considers which of the following?
a. Most super-centenarians are functionally independent or require minimal
assistance with activities of daily living
b. The majority of super-centenarians have cognitive impairment
c. The number of super-centenarians is expected to decrease in coming years as a
result of heart disease and stroke
d. It is theorized that super-centenarians survived as long as they have due to genetic
mutations that made them less susceptible to common diseases
ANS: A
Research supports that most super-centenarians are functionally and cognitively intact,
requiring minimal assistance with ADLs. The number of super-centenarians is expected to
increase in coming years as the number of older adults increases. The reason why individuals
survived as long as they have is not known.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 4
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. One reason why many “baby boomers” have multiple chronic conditions such as heart
disease, diabetes, and arthritis is that:
a. they have less access to medication and other treatment regimens.
b. there was a lack of importance placed on healthy living as they were growing up.
c. they did not have access to immunizations against communicable disease when
they were children.
d. they grew up in an era of rampant poverty and malnutrition.
Chapter 01: Health and Wellness in an Aging Society
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When asked by new parents what the life expectancy is for their African American newborn,
the nurse replies that, “2010 statistics indicate that your son:
a. will have a life expectancy of approximately 65 years.”
b. can realistically expect to live into his late 80s.”
c. has a good chance of celebrating his 75th birthday.”
d. is likely to live into his late 90s.”
ANS: C
In 2010, men in the United States at age 60 can expect to live another 22 years. The life
expectancy of African American men is about 4.7 years less than white men. Of the options
above, C is the only response that fits into those parameters. The other options are not
supported by reliable research.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A nurse is planning care for a group of super-centenarians in an assisted living facility. The
nurse considers which of the following?
a. Most super-centenarians are functionally independent or require minimal
assistance with activities of daily living
b. The majority of super-centenarians have cognitive impairment
c. The number of super-centenarians is expected to decrease in coming years as a
result of heart disease and stroke
d. It is theorized that super-centenarians survived as long as they have due to genetic
mutations that made them less susceptible to common diseases
ANS: A
Research supports that most super-centenarians are functionally and cognitively intact,
requiring minimal assistance with ADLs. The number of super-centenarians is expected to
increase in coming years as the number of older adults increases. The reason why individuals
survived as long as they have is not known.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 4
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. One reason why many “baby boomers” have multiple chronic conditions such as heart
disease, diabetes, and arthritis is that:
a. they have less access to medication and other treatment regimens.
b. there was a lack of importance placed on healthy living as they were growing up.
c. they did not have access to immunizations against communicable disease when
they were children.
d. they grew up in an era of rampant poverty and malnutrition.
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When asked by new parents what the life expectancy is for their African American newborn,
the nurse replies that, “2010 statistics indicate that your son:
a. will have a life expectancy of approximately 65 years.”
b. can realistically expect to live into his late 80s.”
c. has a good chance of celebrating his 75th birthday.”
d. is likely to live into his late 90s.”
ANS: C
In 2010, men in the United States at age 60 can expect to live another 22 years. The life
expectancy of African American men is about 4.7 years less than white men. Of the options
above, C is the only response that fits into those parameters. The other options are not
supported by reliable research.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A nurse is planning care for a group of super-centenarians in an assisted living facility. The
nurse considers which of the following?
a. Most super-centenarians are functionally independent or require minimal
assistance with activities of daily living
b. The majority of super-centenarians have cognitive impairment
c. The number of super-centenarians is expected to decrease in coming years as a
result of heart disease and stroke
d. It is theorized that super-centenarians survived as long as they have due to genetic
mutations that made them less susceptible to common diseases
ANS: A
Research supports that most super-centenarians are functionally and cognitively intact,
requiring minimal assistance with ADLs. The number of super-centenarians is expected to
increase in coming years as the number of older adults increases. The reason why individuals
survived as long as they have is not known.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 4
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. One reason why many “baby boomers” have multiple chronic conditions such as heart
disease, diabetes, and arthritis is that:
a. they have less access to medication and other treatment regimens.
b. there was a lack of importance placed on healthy living as they were growing up.
c. they did not have access to immunizations against communicable disease when
they were children.
d. they grew up in an era of rampant poverty and malnutrition.
ANS: B
The baby boomers, individuals born between 1946 and 1964, post-WWII, have better access
to medication and treatment regimens than other cohorts. They have had the benefit of the
development of immunizations against communicable diseases. They grew up in an era of
prosperity post-WWII. However, there was a lack of importance placed on what we now
consider healthy living when they were younger. Smoking, for example, was not condoned,
but was considered a symbol of status. Candy in the shape of cigarettes was popular, and there
was much secondhand smoke.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 6
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nurse is planning an education program on wellness in a local senior citizen center. The
nurse plans to provide education on the importance of immunizations, annual physical
examinations, screening for diabetes, and vision and hearing screening. It is important for the
nurse to understand which of the following?
a. Approximately 40% of older adults (ages 65 and older) utilize available preventive
services
b. Preventive strategies are more widely used in the 40-64 age group than in the 65
and over age group
c. The research on health promotion strategies in older adults demonstrates that they
have low efficacy
d. There is an abundance of research specific to health promotion and aging
ANS: A
Approximately 40% of individuals, ages 65 and older, utilize the preventive services that are
a paucity of research specific to health promotion and aging; however, the research that exists
demonstrates that health promotion strategies are highly effective.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 7
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A nurse is caring for an 85-year-old male client with diabetes in a community setting. The
nurse promotes functional wellness by which of the following activities?
a. Encouraging the client maintains current levels of physical activity
b. Assisting the client to receive all the recommended preventive screenings that are
appropriate for his age group
c. Teaching the patient how to use a rolling walker so that he can ambulate for longer
distances
d. Encouraging the client to attend his weekly chess games
ANS: A
Maintaining existing levels of physical activity is consistent with functional wellness.
Teaching the client how to use a rolling walker enables the client to remain active at the
highest level possible, which is an example of promoting functional wellness. Receiving
recommended screening is an example of promoting biological wellness. The use of a rolling
walker should be based on assessment of physical ability. Encouraging the client to attend
weekly chess games is an example of promoting social wellness.
available to them. However, only 24% of those between the ages of 40 and 64 do so. There is
The baby boomers, individuals born between 1946 and 1964, post-WWII, have better access
to medication and treatment regimens than other cohorts. They have had the benefit of the
development of immunizations against communicable diseases. They grew up in an era of
prosperity post-WWII. However, there was a lack of importance placed on what we now
consider healthy living when they were younger. Smoking, for example, was not condoned,
but was considered a symbol of status. Candy in the shape of cigarettes was popular, and there
was much secondhand smoke.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 6
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nurse is planning an education program on wellness in a local senior citizen center. The
nurse plans to provide education on the importance of immunizations, annual physical
examinations, screening for diabetes, and vision and hearing screening. It is important for the
nurse to understand which of the following?
a. Approximately 40% of older adults (ages 65 and older) utilize available preventive
services
b. Preventive strategies are more widely used in the 40-64 age group than in the 65
and over age group
c. The research on health promotion strategies in older adults demonstrates that they
have low efficacy
d. There is an abundance of research specific to health promotion and aging
ANS: A
Approximately 40% of individuals, ages 65 and older, utilize the preventive services that are
a paucity of research specific to health promotion and aging; however, the research that exists
demonstrates that health promotion strategies are highly effective.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 7
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A nurse is caring for an 85-year-old male client with diabetes in a community setting. The
nurse promotes functional wellness by which of the following activities?
a. Encouraging the client maintains current levels of physical activity
b. Assisting the client to receive all the recommended preventive screenings that are
appropriate for his age group
c. Teaching the patient how to use a rolling walker so that he can ambulate for longer
distances
d. Encouraging the client to attend his weekly chess games
ANS: A
Maintaining existing levels of physical activity is consistent with functional wellness.
Teaching the client how to use a rolling walker enables the client to remain active at the
highest level possible, which is an example of promoting functional wellness. Receiving
recommended screening is an example of promoting biological wellness. The use of a rolling
walker should be based on assessment of physical ability. Encouraging the client to attend
weekly chess games is an example of promoting social wellness.
available to them. However, only 24% of those between the ages of 40 and 64 do so. There is
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 10
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
6. Based on the census reports of 2010, the typical profile of a centenarian in the United States
includes which of the following characteristics?
a. A Caucasian woman who lives in an urban area of a Southern state
b. An African American woman who lives in a rural area of a Southern state
c. A Hispanic man who lives in an urban area of a Midwestern state
d. A Caucasian man who lives in a rural area of a Midwestern state
ANS: A
Based on the 2010 U.S. Census data, centenarians were overwhelmingly white (82.5%),
women (82.8%), and living in urban areas of the Southern states.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. Primary prevention strategies for older adults include which of the following? (Select all that
apply.)
a. An annual influenza immunization clinic
b. A smoking cessation program
c. A prostate screening program
d. A cardiac rehabilitation program
e. A meal planning education program for type 2 diabetics
ANS: A, B
Primary prevention refers to strategies that are used to prevent an illness before it occurs and
maintaining wellness across the continuum of care. Immunizations and smoking cessation are
examples of primary prevention. Secondary prevention is the early detection of a disease or a
health problem that has already developed. Prostate screening is an example of secondary
prevention. Tertiary prevention addresses the needs of individuals who already have their
wellness challenged. Cardiac rehabilitation and meal planning for diabetics are examples of
tertiary prevention.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 8–9
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Management of Care
2. A nurse organizes a health fair for older adults. The nurse’s goal is to focus on the six priority
areas identified by the National Prevention Council. Which of the following activities should
the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)
a. Smoking cessation
b. Depression screening
c. Recognizing elder abuse
d. Cholesterol screening
e. Fitness training
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
6. Based on the census reports of 2010, the typical profile of a centenarian in the United States
includes which of the following characteristics?
a. A Caucasian woman who lives in an urban area of a Southern state
b. An African American woman who lives in a rural area of a Southern state
c. A Hispanic man who lives in an urban area of a Midwestern state
d. A Caucasian man who lives in a rural area of a Midwestern state
ANS: A
Based on the 2010 U.S. Census data, centenarians were overwhelmingly white (82.5%),
women (82.8%), and living in urban areas of the Southern states.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. Primary prevention strategies for older adults include which of the following? (Select all that
apply.)
a. An annual influenza immunization clinic
b. A smoking cessation program
c. A prostate screening program
d. A cardiac rehabilitation program
e. A meal planning education program for type 2 diabetics
ANS: A, B
Primary prevention refers to strategies that are used to prevent an illness before it occurs and
maintaining wellness across the continuum of care. Immunizations and smoking cessation are
examples of primary prevention. Secondary prevention is the early detection of a disease or a
health problem that has already developed. Prostate screening is an example of secondary
prevention. Tertiary prevention addresses the needs of individuals who already have their
wellness challenged. Cardiac rehabilitation and meal planning for diabetics are examples of
tertiary prevention.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 8–9
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Management of Care
2. A nurse organizes a health fair for older adults. The nurse’s goal is to focus on the six priority
areas identified by the National Prevention Council. Which of the following activities should
the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)
a. Smoking cessation
b. Depression screening
c. Recognizing elder abuse
d. Cholesterol screening
e. Fitness training
Loading page 4...
ANS: A, B, C
The six priority areas of the National Prevention Council include tobacco-free living,
preventing drug abuse and excessive alcohol use, healthy eating, injury- and violence-free
living, reproductive and sexual health, and mental and emotional well-being. Smoking
cessation, depression screening, and recognizing elder abuse all directly address these areas.
While cholesterol screening and fitness training are important for older adults, they do not
address these six priority areas.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 8
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. The “in-between” generation (individuals born between 1915 and 1945) were subject to which
of the following health challenges during their childhood? (Select all that apply.)
a. Polio
b. Lack of fluoride in the water causing teeth to be soft and cavity prone
c. “Pigeon Chest,” a malformation of the rib cage due to a lack of vitamin D
d. Smallpox
e. HIV/AIDS
ANS: A, B, C
Polio was a major fear of this group; the polio vaccine was not available in the United States
until 1955. In many areas water was not fluoridated. “Pigeon Chest” was common. Smallpox
was a concern for the centenarians, not this generation. HIV/AIDS had not been identified in
the early years of 1915-1945.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nursing student is preparing a presentation on the Wellness-Based Model for Healthy
Aging. Which of the following concepts should the student include in the presentation?
(Select all that apply.)
a. Healthy aging is defined by the absence of physical illness alone
b. Healthy aging is individually defined and can change over time
c. There are many strategies to promote healthy aging that are believed to be helpful
but do not have empirical evidence to support them
d. Healthy aging cannot be achieved by only focusing on later life. It is a lifelong
process
e. According to this model, an individual with a chronic disease would not be
considered healthy
ANS: B, C, D
The six priority areas of the National Prevention Council include tobacco-free living,
preventing drug abuse and excessive alcohol use, healthy eating, injury- and violence-free
living, reproductive and sexual health, and mental and emotional well-being. Smoking
cessation, depression screening, and recognizing elder abuse all directly address these areas.
While cholesterol screening and fitness training are important for older adults, they do not
address these six priority areas.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 8
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. The “in-between” generation (individuals born between 1915 and 1945) were subject to which
of the following health challenges during their childhood? (Select all that apply.)
a. Polio
b. Lack of fluoride in the water causing teeth to be soft and cavity prone
c. “Pigeon Chest,” a malformation of the rib cage due to a lack of vitamin D
d. Smallpox
e. HIV/AIDS
ANS: A, B, C
Polio was a major fear of this group; the polio vaccine was not available in the United States
until 1955. In many areas water was not fluoridated. “Pigeon Chest” was common. Smallpox
was a concern for the centenarians, not this generation. HIV/AIDS had not been identified in
the early years of 1915-1945.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nursing student is preparing a presentation on the Wellness-Based Model for Healthy
Aging. Which of the following concepts should the student include in the presentation?
(Select all that apply.)
a. Healthy aging is defined by the absence of physical illness alone
b. Healthy aging is individually defined and can change over time
c. There are many strategies to promote healthy aging that are believed to be helpful
but do not have empirical evidence to support them
d. Healthy aging cannot be achieved by only focusing on later life. It is a lifelong
process
e. According to this model, an individual with a chronic disease would not be
considered healthy
ANS: B, C, D
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Healthy aging is a lifelong process that begins with birth and ends with death. The concept of
healthy aging from a wellness perspective is uniquely defined by each individual and can
change over time. There are challenges to implementing evidence-based practices on healthy
aging because there is a paucity of research on this area. Therefore, there are many strategies
that have been used and determined to be effective but do not have research evidence
supporting them. The subcomponents with the wellness model are functional independence,
self-care management of illness, personal growth, positive outlook, and social contribution
and activities that promote one’s health.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 7
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
healthy aging from a wellness perspective is uniquely defined by each individual and can
change over time. There are challenges to implementing evidence-based practices on healthy
aging because there is a paucity of research on this area. Therefore, there are many strategies
that have been used and determined to be effective but do not have research evidence
supporting them. The subcomponents with the wellness model are functional independence,
self-care management of illness, personal growth, positive outlook, and social contribution
and activities that promote one’s health.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 7
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
Loading page 6...
Chapter 02: Gerontological Nursing: Past, Present, and Future
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Serious and well-controlled research studies on aging have been available:
a. only in the past 60 years.
b. since the turn of the 20th century.
c. following the Great Depression.
d. since the year 2000.
ANS: A
Only in the past 60 years have serious and carefully controlled research studies flourished.
Before that, anecdotal evidence was used to illustrate issues assumed to be universal, making
all the remaining options incorrect.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 19
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The son of a nursing home resident asks a nurse: “What is the significance of being certified
in gerontology? I see that you are, but not all of the nurses are.” The best response by the
nurse is which of the following?
a. “National certification as a gerontological nurse is a way to demonstrate special
knowledge in caring for older adults”
b. “National certification in gerontology is required for all nurses who have worked
in this setting for 2 or more years”
c. “National certification is only available to nurses who have a Baccalaureate degree
in nursing”
d. “Only advanced practice nurses, like nurse practitioners, are certified in
gerontology”
ANS: A
National certification is a way to demonstrate special expertise in caring for older adults. It is
not required for practice in any setting across the continuum of care, and it is not exclusive to
nurses with Baccalaureate degrees. There is both a generalist and a specialist gerontological
nursing certification. The generalist functions in a variety of settings providing care to older
adults and their families. The specialist has advanced gerontological education at a Masters
level.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: pp. 20–21
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Management of Care
3. The major goal of the NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders) program
includes which of the following?
a. Improve outcomes for hospitalized older adults
b. Increase the number of older adults cared for in hospitals
c. Increase the number of iatrogenic complications that occur in hospitalized older
adults
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Serious and well-controlled research studies on aging have been available:
a. only in the past 60 years.
b. since the turn of the 20th century.
c. following the Great Depression.
d. since the year 2000.
ANS: A
Only in the past 60 years have serious and carefully controlled research studies flourished.
Before that, anecdotal evidence was used to illustrate issues assumed to be universal, making
all the remaining options incorrect.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 19
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The son of a nursing home resident asks a nurse: “What is the significance of being certified
in gerontology? I see that you are, but not all of the nurses are.” The best response by the
nurse is which of the following?
a. “National certification as a gerontological nurse is a way to demonstrate special
knowledge in caring for older adults”
b. “National certification in gerontology is required for all nurses who have worked
in this setting for 2 or more years”
c. “National certification is only available to nurses who have a Baccalaureate degree
in nursing”
d. “Only advanced practice nurses, like nurse practitioners, are certified in
gerontology”
ANS: A
National certification is a way to demonstrate special expertise in caring for older adults. It is
not required for practice in any setting across the continuum of care, and it is not exclusive to
nurses with Baccalaureate degrees. There is both a generalist and a specialist gerontological
nursing certification. The generalist functions in a variety of settings providing care to older
adults and their families. The specialist has advanced gerontological education at a Masters
level.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: pp. 20–21
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Management of Care
3. The major goal of the NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders) program
includes which of the following?
a. Improve outcomes for hospitalized older adults
b. Increase the number of older adults cared for in hospitals
c. Increase the number of iatrogenic complications that occur in hospitalized older
adults
Loading page 7...
d. Decrease 30-day readmission rates for hospitalized older adults
ANS: A
The goal of NICHE is to improve outcomes for hospitalized older adults. Although D is a
good outcome for hospitalized older adults, it is not one of the major goals of NICHE, which
are broader. Options b and c are not goals that would improve care for older adults, but would
be negative outcomes themselves.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 22
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 on gerontological
nursing includes which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Funding to support advanced education in gerontological nursing
b. Funding to support education of faculty in gerontology
c. Funding to increase the number of direct care workers in hospitals
d. Funding to increase nurse-patient ratios in long-term care
e. Funding for advanced training of direct care workers in long-term care
ANS: A, B, E
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 provides funding for advanced
education in gerontology, education for faculty in gerontology, and advanced training for
direct care workers in long-term care. The act does not address nurse-patient ratios or staffing
issues in any setting.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which of the following are true statements about the current health care workforce? (Select all
that apply.)
a. Approximately 10% of registered nurses (RNs) are certified in gerontological
nursing
b. The number of geriatricians is expected to increase about 50% over the next 25
years
c. The professions of social work, physical therapy, and psychiatry are demonstrating
the same trends as nursing
d. Europe and the developing countries are experiencing similar shortages in health
care workers with geriatric expertise as in the United States
e. It is anticipated that there will be a need for approximately 3 million additional
direct care and professional health care workers by the year 2030
ANS: C, D, E
Less than 1% of RNs are certified in gerontological nursing. The number of geriatricians is
decreasing, not increasing. Responses C, D, and E are all true.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
ANS: A
The goal of NICHE is to improve outcomes for hospitalized older adults. Although D is a
good outcome for hospitalized older adults, it is not one of the major goals of NICHE, which
are broader. Options b and c are not goals that would improve care for older adults, but would
be negative outcomes themselves.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 22
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 on gerontological
nursing includes which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Funding to support advanced education in gerontological nursing
b. Funding to support education of faculty in gerontology
c. Funding to increase the number of direct care workers in hospitals
d. Funding to increase nurse-patient ratios in long-term care
e. Funding for advanced training of direct care workers in long-term care
ANS: A, B, E
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 provides funding for advanced
education in gerontology, education for faculty in gerontology, and advanced training for
direct care workers in long-term care. The act does not address nurse-patient ratios or staffing
issues in any setting.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which of the following are true statements about the current health care workforce? (Select all
that apply.)
a. Approximately 10% of registered nurses (RNs) are certified in gerontological
nursing
b. The number of geriatricians is expected to increase about 50% over the next 25
years
c. The professions of social work, physical therapy, and psychiatry are demonstrating
the same trends as nursing
d. Europe and the developing countries are experiencing similar shortages in health
care workers with geriatric expertise as in the United States
e. It is anticipated that there will be a need for approximately 3 million additional
direct care and professional health care workers by the year 2030
ANS: C, D, E
Less than 1% of RNs are certified in gerontological nursing. The number of geriatricians is
decreasing, not increasing. Responses C, D, and E are all true.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
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MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. Best practice recommendations for undergraduate nursing education in relation to gerontology
include which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Provision of a “stand-alone” course in gerontological nursing
b. Integration of gerontological content throughout the curriculum
c. Replacement of acute care pediatric clinical experiences with gerontological
clinical experiences
d. Recruitment of nurses with Masters and Doctoral degrees and a specialty in
gerontology to faculty roles
e. Requiring all undergraduate nursing students to obtain gerontological certification
as a requirement for graduation
ANS: A, B, D
Best practices include providing a stand-alone gerontological nursing course as well as
integrating gerontology throughout the curriculum. Recruitment of nurses with a specialty in
gerontology and a Masters or Doctoral degree to faculty roles is a critical step in making sure
that the next generation of nurses is prepared to care for older adults. Best practices do not
recommend removing pediatric clinical experiences and replacing them with gerontological
experiences. Nursing certification is only available to practicing nurses who meet specific
education and practice requirements. It is not applicable to nursing students.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 17–18
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Goals of the Eldercare Workforce Alliance include which of the following? (Select all that
apply.)
a. Mandating a minimum of a Baccalaureate degree in nursing in order to care for
older adults
b. Increasing wages of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in nursing homes
c. Providing loan forgiveness for individuals who assume faculty roles
d. Developing a nursing certification specific to long-term care
e. Adopting cost-effective care coordination models for older adults across the
continuum of care
ANS: B, C, E
A, B, and C are all included in the Elder Workforce Alliance goals. Options A and D are not.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A nurse interviews for a job in a hospital that advertises that it is “elderly friendly.” The nurse
would expect to see which of the following in place? (Select all that apply.)
a. An elder-assistance program to help patients remember their appointments and
navigate the hospital services.
b. A long-term care facility that is affiliated with the hospital
c. Rooms furnished with foldout beds for family members/caregivers
d. An initiative to provide gerontological education for all nurses
e. An initiative to increase the number of patients referred to long-term care facilities
3. Best practice recommendations for undergraduate nursing education in relation to gerontology
include which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Provision of a “stand-alone” course in gerontological nursing
b. Integration of gerontological content throughout the curriculum
c. Replacement of acute care pediatric clinical experiences with gerontological
clinical experiences
d. Recruitment of nurses with Masters and Doctoral degrees and a specialty in
gerontology to faculty roles
e. Requiring all undergraduate nursing students to obtain gerontological certification
as a requirement for graduation
ANS: A, B, D
Best practices include providing a stand-alone gerontological nursing course as well as
integrating gerontology throughout the curriculum. Recruitment of nurses with a specialty in
gerontology and a Masters or Doctoral degree to faculty roles is a critical step in making sure
that the next generation of nurses is prepared to care for older adults. Best practices do not
recommend removing pediatric clinical experiences and replacing them with gerontological
experiences. Nursing certification is only available to practicing nurses who meet specific
education and practice requirements. It is not applicable to nursing students.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 17–18
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Goals of the Eldercare Workforce Alliance include which of the following? (Select all that
apply.)
a. Mandating a minimum of a Baccalaureate degree in nursing in order to care for
older adults
b. Increasing wages of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in nursing homes
c. Providing loan forgiveness for individuals who assume faculty roles
d. Developing a nursing certification specific to long-term care
e. Adopting cost-effective care coordination models for older adults across the
continuum of care
ANS: B, C, E
A, B, and C are all included in the Elder Workforce Alliance goals. Options A and D are not.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 14
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A nurse interviews for a job in a hospital that advertises that it is “elderly friendly.” The nurse
would expect to see which of the following in place? (Select all that apply.)
a. An elder-assistance program to help patients remember their appointments and
navigate the hospital services.
b. A long-term care facility that is affiliated with the hospital
c. Rooms furnished with foldout beds for family members/caregivers
d. An initiative to provide gerontological education for all nurses
e. An initiative to increase the number of patients referred to long-term care facilities
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upon discharge from the hospital
ANS: A, C, D
The guiding principles of an elder friendly facility include treating each patient as a unique
individual and accommodating the patient and family’s special needs. Other principles include
ensuring that the nurses are clinically competent in gerontological nursing. Tailoring the
environment to support the implementation of these principles is part of this initiative. Option
B is not correct as it does not relate to the concept of an elder friendly hospital. Option E is
not correct since this might not be a supportive intervention for all patients.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 22, Box 2-7
TOP: Integrated Process: Caring MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
6. Significant factors contributing to the growth of community-based care include: (Select all
that apply.)
a. a decrease in the number of available nursing home beds.
b. rapidly escalating health care costs.
c. older adults’ preferences to “age in place.”
d. inadequate numbers of nurses with gerontological specialty education.
e. decreasing numbers of family caregivers.
ANS: B, C
Care will continue to move out of hospitals and long-term care facilities because of rapidly
escalating health care costs and individual preferences to “age in place.” There has not been a
decrease in nursing home beds. Although there are inadequate numbers of nurses with
gerontological specialty training, this is not a factor that has impacted the growth of
community-based care. There is projected to be a decrease in the number of family caregivers
as the caregivers themselves are aging; however, this does not contribute to the growth of
community-based care.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 23
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
7. Changes in certified nursing facilities in recent years include which of the following? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Increase in the number of subacute beds
b. Decrease in nursing facility length of stay
c. Increase in level of acuity of the residents
d. Decrease in cost of care in the nursing facility
e. Decrease in the number of registered nurses employed in long-term care facilities
ANS: A, B, C
Certified nursing facilities have evolved over recent years. Most facilities have subacute care
units that resemble hospital units caring for more patients with higher acuity than in the past.
Therefore, the average length of stay in a facility has decreased. The cost of care in the facility
has increased due to the increased complexity of illnesses treated, and the number of
registered nurses has increased in order to care for these complex patients.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 23
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
ANS: A, C, D
The guiding principles of an elder friendly facility include treating each patient as a unique
individual and accommodating the patient and family’s special needs. Other principles include
ensuring that the nurses are clinically competent in gerontological nursing. Tailoring the
environment to support the implementation of these principles is part of this initiative. Option
B is not correct as it does not relate to the concept of an elder friendly hospital. Option E is
not correct since this might not be a supportive intervention for all patients.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 22, Box 2-7
TOP: Integrated Process: Caring MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
6. Significant factors contributing to the growth of community-based care include: (Select all
that apply.)
a. a decrease in the number of available nursing home beds.
b. rapidly escalating health care costs.
c. older adults’ preferences to “age in place.”
d. inadequate numbers of nurses with gerontological specialty education.
e. decreasing numbers of family caregivers.
ANS: B, C
Care will continue to move out of hospitals and long-term care facilities because of rapidly
escalating health care costs and individual preferences to “age in place.” There has not been a
decrease in nursing home beds. Although there are inadequate numbers of nurses with
gerontological specialty training, this is not a factor that has impacted the growth of
community-based care. There is projected to be a decrease in the number of family caregivers
as the caregivers themselves are aging; however, this does not contribute to the growth of
community-based care.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 23
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
7. Changes in certified nursing facilities in recent years include which of the following? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Increase in the number of subacute beds
b. Decrease in nursing facility length of stay
c. Increase in level of acuity of the residents
d. Decrease in cost of care in the nursing facility
e. Decrease in the number of registered nurses employed in long-term care facilities
ANS: A, B, C
Certified nursing facilities have evolved over recent years. Most facilities have subacute care
units that resemble hospital units caring for more patients with higher acuity than in the past.
Therefore, the average length of stay in a facility has decreased. The cost of care in the facility
has increased due to the increased complexity of illnesses treated, and the number of
registered nurses has increased in order to care for these complex patients.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 23
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
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8. Which of the following factors contribute to poor outcomes for older adults during transitions
of care? (Select all that apply.)
a. Inability to read and understand discharge instructions
b. Inadequate financial resources to purchase medications
c. Lack of desire to comply with discharge instructions
d. Improved medication reconciliation during hospitalization
e. High levels of nurse-patient engagement
ANS: A, B
Language and literacy levels and socioeconomic factors are major contributors to poor
transitions of care for older adults. A high level of nurse-patient engagement contributes to
safe and effective transitions. Medication reconciliation during hospitalization, at discharge
and after discharge, decreases medication discrepancies, which are the most prevalent adverse
event following hospital discharge. There is no evidence that patients lack the desire to
comply with discharge instructions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 24
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Safety and Infection Control
of care? (Select all that apply.)
a. Inability to read and understand discharge instructions
b. Inadequate financial resources to purchase medications
c. Lack of desire to comply with discharge instructions
d. Improved medication reconciliation during hospitalization
e. High levels of nurse-patient engagement
ANS: A, B
Language and literacy levels and socioeconomic factors are major contributors to poor
transitions of care for older adults. A high level of nurse-patient engagement contributes to
safe and effective transitions. Medication reconciliation during hospitalization, at discharge
and after discharge, decreases medication discrepancies, which are the most prevalent adverse
event following hospital discharge. There is no evidence that patients lack the desire to
comply with discharge instructions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 24
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Safety and Infection Control
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Chapter 03: Theories of Aging
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The nurse is aware the theory of aging most likely to explain why the older population is at
risk for autoimmune disorder is known as:
a. cross-link theory.
b. free radical theory.
c. error theory.
d. autoimmune theory.
ANS: D
The immunity theory proposes that cellular errors in the immune system have been found to
lead to an auto-aggressive phenomenon in which normal cells are misidentified as alien and
are destroyed by the body’s own immune system. This phenomenon is used to explain the
increase of autoimmune disorders as we age. The cross-link theory describes aging in terms of
the accumulation of errors of cross-linking or stiffening of proteins in the body. The free
radical theory describes free radical errors as the result of random damage from free radicals.
The error theory is a group of theories that propose that aging is an accumulation of errors in
the synthesis of cellular DNA and RNA, which are the building blocks of the cell.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 34
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The family member of a patient asks if vitamin C will prevent aging. In formulating an
appropriate response, the nurse considers the:
a. free radical theory.
b. autoimmune theory.
c. wear-and-tear theory.
d. continuity theory.
ANS: A
The free radical theory posits that aging is a result of random damage from free radicals.
Research is ongoing on the ability of substances with antioxidant effects to counter the actions
of free radicals. For many years it was thought that consumption of supplemental antioxidants,
such as vitamin C, could delay or minimize the effects of aging. However, it is now known
that the intake of supplemental antioxidants can be deleterious to one’s health. The
autoimmune theory posits that the cells of the immune system become progressively more
diversified with age and lose self-regulatory ability. The use of vitamin C is not associated
with this theory. The wear-and-tear theory posits that cellular errors are the result of wearing
out over time due to constant use. The continuity theory is a sociological theory that deals
with the tendency of individuals to develop and maintain consistent patterns of behavior
throughout their lives.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 32–33
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The nurse is aware the theory of aging most likely to explain why the older population is at
risk for autoimmune disorder is known as:
a. cross-link theory.
b. free radical theory.
c. error theory.
d. autoimmune theory.
ANS: D
The immunity theory proposes that cellular errors in the immune system have been found to
lead to an auto-aggressive phenomenon in which normal cells are misidentified as alien and
are destroyed by the body’s own immune system. This phenomenon is used to explain the
increase of autoimmune disorders as we age. The cross-link theory describes aging in terms of
the accumulation of errors of cross-linking or stiffening of proteins in the body. The free
radical theory describes free radical errors as the result of random damage from free radicals.
The error theory is a group of theories that propose that aging is an accumulation of errors in
the synthesis of cellular DNA and RNA, which are the building blocks of the cell.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 34
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The family member of a patient asks if vitamin C will prevent aging. In formulating an
appropriate response, the nurse considers the:
a. free radical theory.
b. autoimmune theory.
c. wear-and-tear theory.
d. continuity theory.
ANS: A
The free radical theory posits that aging is a result of random damage from free radicals.
Research is ongoing on the ability of substances with antioxidant effects to counter the actions
of free radicals. For many years it was thought that consumption of supplemental antioxidants,
such as vitamin C, could delay or minimize the effects of aging. However, it is now known
that the intake of supplemental antioxidants can be deleterious to one’s health. The
autoimmune theory posits that the cells of the immune system become progressively more
diversified with age and lose self-regulatory ability. The use of vitamin C is not associated
with this theory. The wear-and-tear theory posits that cellular errors are the result of wearing
out over time due to constant use. The continuity theory is a sociological theory that deals
with the tendency of individuals to develop and maintain consistent patterns of behavior
throughout their lives.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 32–33
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
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3. The nurse implements the concepts of the activity theory of aging when instructing the older
client with osteoarthritis to:
a. continue her daily walking routine.
b. curtail further increases in physical activity.
c. document preferred end-of-life interventions.
d. avoid exposing herself to crowds.
ANS: A
The activity theory states that successful aging equals active aging, which is related to the
person’s need to maintain a productive life for it to be a happy life. Curtailing increases in
physical activity is diametrically opposite to continuing a daily walking routine and contrary
to the tenets of the activity theory. End-of-life decisions and avoiding exposure to crowds are
not related to the activity theory since they do not directly affect the productiveness of a
client’s life.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 35–36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A community health nurse provides an annual flu prevention workshop at a local senior
center. The activities include a lecture on preventing infections, which includes hand washing
and limiting exposure to individuals who are ill, as well as an influenza immunization clinic.
The nurse is basing her activities on what theory of aging?
a. Wear and tear
b. Oxidative stress
c. Autoimmune
d. Free radical
ANS: C
The autoimmune theory of aging describes changes in cells of the immune system, which
make an older person more susceptible to infection. Prevention of infection is very important
in older adults and can be accomplished by education and immunization. Wear and tear,
oxidative stress, and free radical are incorrect because none of these theories of aging deal
with prevention of infection.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 34
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A 66-year-old retired professional basketball player is admitted to the hospital for a total knee
replacement due to osteoarthritis. In preparing preoperative teaching for this patient, the nurse
includes which theory of aging to help him understand how the disease has progressed?
a. Free radical theory
b. Wear-and-tear theory
c. Gene theory
d. Cross-link theory
ANS: B
client with osteoarthritis to:
a. continue her daily walking routine.
b. curtail further increases in physical activity.
c. document preferred end-of-life interventions.
d. avoid exposing herself to crowds.
ANS: A
The activity theory states that successful aging equals active aging, which is related to the
person’s need to maintain a productive life for it to be a happy life. Curtailing increases in
physical activity is diametrically opposite to continuing a daily walking routine and contrary
to the tenets of the activity theory. End-of-life decisions and avoiding exposure to crowds are
not related to the activity theory since they do not directly affect the productiveness of a
client’s life.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 35–36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A community health nurse provides an annual flu prevention workshop at a local senior
center. The activities include a lecture on preventing infections, which includes hand washing
and limiting exposure to individuals who are ill, as well as an influenza immunization clinic.
The nurse is basing her activities on what theory of aging?
a. Wear and tear
b. Oxidative stress
c. Autoimmune
d. Free radical
ANS: C
The autoimmune theory of aging describes changes in cells of the immune system, which
make an older person more susceptible to infection. Prevention of infection is very important
in older adults and can be accomplished by education and immunization. Wear and tear,
oxidative stress, and free radical are incorrect because none of these theories of aging deal
with prevention of infection.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 34
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A 66-year-old retired professional basketball player is admitted to the hospital for a total knee
replacement due to osteoarthritis. In preparing preoperative teaching for this patient, the nurse
includes which theory of aging to help him understand how the disease has progressed?
a. Free radical theory
b. Wear-and-tear theory
c. Gene theory
d. Cross-link theory
ANS: B
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Osteoarthritis is characteristic of degeneration that results from joint usage. This disease is a
good example of the wear-and-tear theory; repeatedly injuring one organ or body system, such
as occurs during playing sports, may result in premature aging and diseases such as
osteoarthritis. The free radical theory states that cell damage is a result of the accumulation of
oxygen radicals. The gene theory states that genes govern cellular mortality. The cross-link
theory is related to the accumulation of cross-linked proteins, which may cause disease.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 32
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
6. A married couple retired to a life care community after the husband had heart surgery. The
wife has always been physically and socially active and joined an aerobic class, knitting
groups, and a book club shortly after moving to the community. She walks on a daily basis
and swims twice a week. Her husband spends his days reading and watching television. He
was never a social person and enjoys being by himself. Which of the sociological theories of
aging best describes the couple?
a. Role theory
b. Disengagement theory
c. Continuity theory
d. Personality theory
ANS: C
The continuity theory asserts that individuals tend to develop and maintain a consistent pattern
of behavior as they age. The wife was active and social and continues to be so. Her husband
was not very social and preferred less active activities and continues to do so. The role theory
describes that people engage in roles consistent with their chronological age. The scenario
above describes activity levels, not roles. The disengagement theory describes withdrawal of
older adults from roles and activities of earlier life. Personality theories are distinct and
different from sociological theories of aging.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
7. A nurse plans programs for older adults in a senior center. She organizes a series of exercise
programs. She sets one up for clients ages 65-74, one for clients 74-85, and one for clients
over age 85. The nurse is utilizing which theory of aging?
a. Gerotranscendence
b. Activity theory
c. Age-stratification theory
d. Continuity theory
ANS: C
Age-stratification theory considers individuals as members of cohorts with similarities to
others in the same group. The importance of the similarities exceeds that of the differences.
Gerotranscendence theory posits that older adults withdraw from society, in order to give the
individual the opportunity for self-reflection and exploration. Time, material possessions, and
superficial relationships have less meaning. Activity theory proposes that continued activity
contributes to successful aging. Continuity theory posits that individuals develop and maintain
a consistent pattern of behavior over a lifetime.
good example of the wear-and-tear theory; repeatedly injuring one organ or body system, such
as occurs during playing sports, may result in premature aging and diseases such as
osteoarthritis. The free radical theory states that cell damage is a result of the accumulation of
oxygen radicals. The gene theory states that genes govern cellular mortality. The cross-link
theory is related to the accumulation of cross-linked proteins, which may cause disease.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 32
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
6. A married couple retired to a life care community after the husband had heart surgery. The
wife has always been physically and socially active and joined an aerobic class, knitting
groups, and a book club shortly after moving to the community. She walks on a daily basis
and swims twice a week. Her husband spends his days reading and watching television. He
was never a social person and enjoys being by himself. Which of the sociological theories of
aging best describes the couple?
a. Role theory
b. Disengagement theory
c. Continuity theory
d. Personality theory
ANS: C
The continuity theory asserts that individuals tend to develop and maintain a consistent pattern
of behavior as they age. The wife was active and social and continues to be so. Her husband
was not very social and preferred less active activities and continues to do so. The role theory
describes that people engage in roles consistent with their chronological age. The scenario
above describes activity levels, not roles. The disengagement theory describes withdrawal of
older adults from roles and activities of earlier life. Personality theories are distinct and
different from sociological theories of aging.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
7. A nurse plans programs for older adults in a senior center. She organizes a series of exercise
programs. She sets one up for clients ages 65-74, one for clients 74-85, and one for clients
over age 85. The nurse is utilizing which theory of aging?
a. Gerotranscendence
b. Activity theory
c. Age-stratification theory
d. Continuity theory
ANS: C
Age-stratification theory considers individuals as members of cohorts with similarities to
others in the same group. The importance of the similarities exceeds that of the differences.
Gerotranscendence theory posits that older adults withdraw from society, in order to give the
individual the opportunity for self-reflection and exploration. Time, material possessions, and
superficial relationships have less meaning. Activity theory proposes that continued activity
contributes to successful aging. Continuity theory posits that individuals develop and maintain
a consistent pattern of behavior over a lifetime.
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DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The nurse shows an understanding of the error group of aging theories when stating: (Select
all that apply.)
a. “Aging occurs differently for the various ethnic groups.”
b. “Our genetic makeup is responsible for how we are affected by age.”
c. “Aging is a result of mistakes in our RNA and DNA metabolism.”
d. “The free radical theory is an example of an error theory.”
e. “Aging effects are really random and unpredictable.”
ANS: C, D, E
Answers A and B are congruent with programmed (nonerror) theories. The programmed
theories are those in which the changes of aging are attributed to a process that is programmed
and thought to be predetermined such as in the various ethnic groups. Research is currently
looking at genes being responsible for aging. The programmed theories view aging as
predetermined and not random. The error theories propose that aging is the result of an
accumulation of errors in the synthesis of cellular DNA and RNA synthesis, and that changes
related to aging are random and unpredictable. The free radical theory is an error theory.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 32
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The nurse preparing wellness information for older adult clients is promoting interventions
consistent with the concepts of the biological theories of aging when suggesting that they:
(Select all that apply.)
a. use moisturizers daily to minimize dry skin.
b. discuss the use of antacids to control heartburn with their health care provider.
c. stay active by interacting with family and friends regularly.
d. practice stress reduction techniques on a regular basis.
e. consider getting a yearly influenza vaccination.
ANS: A, B, D, E
Interventions that promote biological theories of aging include those that help avoid skin
dryness and the overuse of antacids (cross-link) as well as the minimization of stress and risk
for viral infections (oxidative stress, immunity). Remaining physically active and emotionally
connected is consistent with the psychosocial theories of aging.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 35, Box 3-5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A nurse demonstrates understanding of the continuity theory when the nurse provides which
of the following advice to an older client? (Select all that apply.)
a. “It is important to think about the activities that have been most satisfying for you
throughout your adult life and make a plan to continue them”
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The nurse shows an understanding of the error group of aging theories when stating: (Select
all that apply.)
a. “Aging occurs differently for the various ethnic groups.”
b. “Our genetic makeup is responsible for how we are affected by age.”
c. “Aging is a result of mistakes in our RNA and DNA metabolism.”
d. “The free radical theory is an example of an error theory.”
e. “Aging effects are really random and unpredictable.”
ANS: C, D, E
Answers A and B are congruent with programmed (nonerror) theories. The programmed
theories are those in which the changes of aging are attributed to a process that is programmed
and thought to be predetermined such as in the various ethnic groups. Research is currently
looking at genes being responsible for aging. The programmed theories view aging as
predetermined and not random. The error theories propose that aging is the result of an
accumulation of errors in the synthesis of cellular DNA and RNA synthesis, and that changes
related to aging are random and unpredictable. The free radical theory is an error theory.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 32
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The nurse preparing wellness information for older adult clients is promoting interventions
consistent with the concepts of the biological theories of aging when suggesting that they:
(Select all that apply.)
a. use moisturizers daily to minimize dry skin.
b. discuss the use of antacids to control heartburn with their health care provider.
c. stay active by interacting with family and friends regularly.
d. practice stress reduction techniques on a regular basis.
e. consider getting a yearly influenza vaccination.
ANS: A, B, D, E
Interventions that promote biological theories of aging include those that help avoid skin
dryness and the overuse of antacids (cross-link) as well as the minimization of stress and risk
for viral infections (oxidative stress, immunity). Remaining physically active and emotionally
connected is consistent with the psychosocial theories of aging.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 35, Box 3-5
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A nurse demonstrates understanding of the continuity theory when the nurse provides which
of the following advice to an older client? (Select all that apply.)
a. “It is important to think about the activities that have been most satisfying for you
throughout your adult life and make a plan to continue them”
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b. “Since you enjoyed teaching young children so much, perhaps you would enjoy
volunteering in the day care center”
c. “It is important to save enough money so that you will have an adequate income
during retirement”
d. “It is important to maintain an active lifestyle as you age”
e. “As you get older it is natural to slowly disengage oneself from many activities”
ANS: A, B
Continuity theory posits that individuals develop and maintain a consistent pattern of behavior
over a lifetime. Successful aging is associated with one’s ability to maintain and continue
previous behaviors and roles or find suitable replacements. Options A and B demonstrate this
theory. Option C demonstrates the social exchange theory, which is conceptualized from an
economic perspective. Option D demonstrates the activity theory, and Option E demonstrates
the disengagement theory.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Gerotranscendence theory posits that: (Select all that apply.)
a. older adults withdraw from society in order to allow the transfer of power to
younger individuals.
b. older adults withdraw from society in order to give the individual an opportunity
for self-reflection and self-exploration.
c. time and superficial relationships become less important.
d. material possessions have less meaning.
e. status and value of elders is lost because their contributions are no longer valued.
ANS: B, C, D
Disengagement theory posits that older adults withdraw from society in order to allow the
transfer of power to younger adults. Gerotranscendence theory posits similarly that older
adults withdraw from society, but for different reasons. These reasons include giving the
individual the opportunity for self-reflection and exploration. Time, material possessions, and
superficial relationships have less meaning. The modernization theory posits that the status
and value of elders is lost because their contributions are no longer valued.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
volunteering in the day care center”
c. “It is important to save enough money so that you will have an adequate income
during retirement”
d. “It is important to maintain an active lifestyle as you age”
e. “As you get older it is natural to slowly disengage oneself from many activities”
ANS: A, B
Continuity theory posits that individuals develop and maintain a consistent pattern of behavior
over a lifetime. Successful aging is associated with one’s ability to maintain and continue
previous behaviors and roles or find suitable replacements. Options A and B demonstrate this
theory. Option C demonstrates the social exchange theory, which is conceptualized from an
economic perspective. Option D demonstrates the activity theory, and Option E demonstrates
the disengagement theory.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Gerotranscendence theory posits that: (Select all that apply.)
a. older adults withdraw from society in order to allow the transfer of power to
younger individuals.
b. older adults withdraw from society in order to give the individual an opportunity
for self-reflection and self-exploration.
c. time and superficial relationships become less important.
d. material possessions have less meaning.
e. status and value of elders is lost because their contributions are no longer valued.
ANS: B, C, D
Disengagement theory posits that older adults withdraw from society in order to allow the
transfer of power to younger adults. Gerotranscendence theory posits similarly that older
adults withdraw from society, but for different reasons. These reasons include giving the
individual the opportunity for self-reflection and exploration. Time, material possessions, and
superficial relationships have less meaning. The modernization theory posits that the status
and value of elders is lost because their contributions are no longer valued.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 36
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
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Chapter 04: Cross-Cultural Caring and Aging
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A paper on culture and illness would be likely to include the statement that:
a. culture is the same as ethnicity.
b. ethnic groups always share common geographic origin and religion.
c. ethnicity involves recognized traditions, symbols, and literature.
d. most members of an ethnic group exhibit identical cultural traits.
ANS: C
Ethnicity is a complex phenomenon including traditions, symbols, literature, folklore, food
preferences, and dress. It is a shared identity. Ethnicity is more than just culture. It is social
differentiation based on culture. Even within ethnic groups, there is considerable diversity.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 44
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
2. Ethnocentrism is defined as:
a. an understanding of another’s cultural beliefs and practices.
b. a conflict that occurs when an individual interacts with another whose beliefs
differ from his own.
c. application of limited knowledge about one person with characteristics specific to
another person.
d. a belief that one’s ethnic group is superior to that of another.
ANS: D
A belief that one’s ethnic group is superior to that of another is the definition of
ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism does not involve an understanding of the beliefs of others. A
conflict that occurs when an individual interacts with another whose beliefs differ from his
own is the definition of cultural conflict. Application of limited knowledge about one person
with characteristics specific to another person is the definition of stereotyping.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 42
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
3. Regarding health care disparities, it is true that older adults of color have:
a. equal risk factors for vulnerability as do all older adults.
b. equal risk factors for vulnerability as do the young adults of color.
c. increased risk factors for vulnerability if they are female.
d. an increase in risk factors for vulnerability if care is provided by public facilities.
ANS: C
Older females of color have an added risk factor for vulnerability (gender) than do males of
the same age and ethnic group. Ethnicity is an added factor for vulnerability. Age is an
additional risk factor for vulnerability. Health care disparities are found across a wide range of
clinical settings.
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A paper on culture and illness would be likely to include the statement that:
a. culture is the same as ethnicity.
b. ethnic groups always share common geographic origin and religion.
c. ethnicity involves recognized traditions, symbols, and literature.
d. most members of an ethnic group exhibit identical cultural traits.
ANS: C
Ethnicity is a complex phenomenon including traditions, symbols, literature, folklore, food
preferences, and dress. It is a shared identity. Ethnicity is more than just culture. It is social
differentiation based on culture. Even within ethnic groups, there is considerable diversity.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 44
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
2. Ethnocentrism is defined as:
a. an understanding of another’s cultural beliefs and practices.
b. a conflict that occurs when an individual interacts with another whose beliefs
differ from his own.
c. application of limited knowledge about one person with characteristics specific to
another person.
d. a belief that one’s ethnic group is superior to that of another.
ANS: D
A belief that one’s ethnic group is superior to that of another is the definition of
ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism does not involve an understanding of the beliefs of others. A
conflict that occurs when an individual interacts with another whose beliefs differ from his
own is the definition of cultural conflict. Application of limited knowledge about one person
with characteristics specific to another person is the definition of stereotyping.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 42
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
3. Regarding health care disparities, it is true that older adults of color have:
a. equal risk factors for vulnerability as do all older adults.
b. equal risk factors for vulnerability as do the young adults of color.
c. increased risk factors for vulnerability if they are female.
d. an increase in risk factors for vulnerability if care is provided by public facilities.
ANS: C
Older females of color have an added risk factor for vulnerability (gender) than do males of
the same age and ethnic group. Ethnicity is an added factor for vulnerability. Age is an
additional risk factor for vulnerability. Health care disparities are found across a wide range of
clinical settings.
Loading page 17...
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 41
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
4. An older female patient tells a nurse the following: “In my culture, women are the silent
partner in the family. Men make all of the decisions. However, when we came to the United
States, all that changed. I became an American. I am in charge of my family just like my
husband.” This is an example of:
a. enculturation.
b. acculturation.
c. ethnicity.
d. culture competence.
ANS: B
Enculturation is defined as cultural beliefs passed down from one generation to the next.
Acculturation is the process by which persons from one culture adapt to another. Ethnicity is
defined as the cultural group that one identifies with. Cultural competence involves stepping
outside our own biases and understanding that others bring a different set of values.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 40
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
5. A home care nurse is caring for an older patient from a different culture who is bed-bound and
high risk for development of a pressure ulcer. The nurse discusses the plan of care with the
patient’s daughter, emphasizing the importance of turning every 2 hours and posts a turning
clock on the wall. When the nurse returns later in the week, the turning clock has been
removed, and the patient’s daughter reports that she turns her mother occasionally. She states,
“I am taking very good care of my mother. You just don’t understand; our ways do not
involve doing things on schedules.” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “You must follow my guidelines and turn her every 2 hours, or I will not be able to
take care of her.”
b. “I understand that you value your culture, but culture cannot stop you from
providing good care to your mother.”
c. “I understand that you care very much for your mother. Perhaps caring for her is
too much for you.”
d. “How can we best work together to provide the best care for your mother?”
ANS: D
In providing cross-cultural care it is important that the nurse work with the patient and family
and listen carefully and find a way to include the values and beliefs of the patient in the plan
of care.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 43
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
6. An older patient learns that he has metastatic cancer. The patient states: “I must have angered
God.” This is an example of which type of belief?
a. Biomedical
b. Magico-religious
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
4. An older female patient tells a nurse the following: “In my culture, women are the silent
partner in the family. Men make all of the decisions. However, when we came to the United
States, all that changed. I became an American. I am in charge of my family just like my
husband.” This is an example of:
a. enculturation.
b. acculturation.
c. ethnicity.
d. culture competence.
ANS: B
Enculturation is defined as cultural beliefs passed down from one generation to the next.
Acculturation is the process by which persons from one culture adapt to another. Ethnicity is
defined as the cultural group that one identifies with. Cultural competence involves stepping
outside our own biases and understanding that others bring a different set of values.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 40
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
5. A home care nurse is caring for an older patient from a different culture who is bed-bound and
high risk for development of a pressure ulcer. The nurse discusses the plan of care with the
patient’s daughter, emphasizing the importance of turning every 2 hours and posts a turning
clock on the wall. When the nurse returns later in the week, the turning clock has been
removed, and the patient’s daughter reports that she turns her mother occasionally. She states,
“I am taking very good care of my mother. You just don’t understand; our ways do not
involve doing things on schedules.” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “You must follow my guidelines and turn her every 2 hours, or I will not be able to
take care of her.”
b. “I understand that you value your culture, but culture cannot stop you from
providing good care to your mother.”
c. “I understand that you care very much for your mother. Perhaps caring for her is
too much for you.”
d. “How can we best work together to provide the best care for your mother?”
ANS: D
In providing cross-cultural care it is important that the nurse work with the patient and family
and listen carefully and find a way to include the values and beliefs of the patient in the plan
of care.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 43
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
6. An older patient learns that he has metastatic cancer. The patient states: “I must have angered
God.” This is an example of which type of belief?
a. Biomedical
b. Magico-religious
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c. Naturalistic
d. Ayurvedic
ANS: B
Magico-religious: views illness as caused by actions of a higher authority.
Biomedical: views disease as a result of abnormalities in structure and function and disease
caused by intrusion of pathogens into the body.
Naturalistic: based on the concepts of balance. Health is seen as a sign of balance.
Ayurvedic: the oldest known paradigm in the naturalistic system. Illness is seen as an
imbalance.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 46
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
7. A female nurse is caring for an older woman from the Hasidic Jewish community. The
woman’s son is at the patient’s bedside. The nurse notes that when she communicates with the
patient and her son, the son does not maintain eye contact with her and also notes that he
withdraws when she attempts to shake his hand. The best response by the nurse is to:
a. carry on conversation with the patient only, ignoring the son.
b. continue conversing with both the patient and the son.
c. ask the son to leave since he is not comfortable with her.
d. ask the patient why the son will not engage with her.
ANS: B
In some cultures, direct eye contact or contact between men and women is seen as a sexual
advance. This is true in the Hasidic culture. Options A and C are disrespectful to the patient
and her son. Option D may put the son in an uncomfortable position.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 48
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The nurse in a clinic setting that provides care for an ethnically diverse population of older
clients shows an understanding of the LEARN Model to direct the assessment process when:
(Select all that apply.)
a. recognizing that the client’s hands are clenched as she answers the assessment
questions.
b. asking the client to describe what he thinks will help him feel better.
c. explaining to the client that herbal remedies may not be sufficient treatment for his
chest congestion.
d. acknowledging that the client has a different view of the appropriate treatment.
e. suggesting to the client that it would be beneficial if she would trust her health care
provider to prescribe the correct treatment.
ANS: A, B, C, D
d. Ayurvedic
ANS: B
Magico-religious: views illness as caused by actions of a higher authority.
Biomedical: views disease as a result of abnormalities in structure and function and disease
caused by intrusion of pathogens into the body.
Naturalistic: based on the concepts of balance. Health is seen as a sign of balance.
Ayurvedic: the oldest known paradigm in the naturalistic system. Illness is seen as an
imbalance.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 46
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
7. A female nurse is caring for an older woman from the Hasidic Jewish community. The
woman’s son is at the patient’s bedside. The nurse notes that when she communicates with the
patient and her son, the son does not maintain eye contact with her and also notes that he
withdraws when she attempts to shake his hand. The best response by the nurse is to:
a. carry on conversation with the patient only, ignoring the son.
b. continue conversing with both the patient and the son.
c. ask the son to leave since he is not comfortable with her.
d. ask the patient why the son will not engage with her.
ANS: B
In some cultures, direct eye contact or contact between men and women is seen as a sexual
advance. This is true in the Hasidic culture. Options A and C are disrespectful to the patient
and her son. Option D may put the son in an uncomfortable position.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 48
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The nurse in a clinic setting that provides care for an ethnically diverse population of older
clients shows an understanding of the LEARN Model to direct the assessment process when:
(Select all that apply.)
a. recognizing that the client’s hands are clenched as she answers the assessment
questions.
b. asking the client to describe what he thinks will help him feel better.
c. explaining to the client that herbal remedies may not be sufficient treatment for his
chest congestion.
d. acknowledging that the client has a different view of the appropriate treatment.
e. suggesting to the client that it would be beneficial if she would trust her health care
provider to prescribe the correct treatment.
ANS: A, B, C, D
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The LEARN Model implements active listening to both the client’s verbal and nonverbal
communication as a means of obtaining insight into the client’s perspective of his or her
medical problem. This model also encourages the nurse to recognize that the perceptions may
differ and to explain the differences in perceptions to the client. The model advocates arriving
at a mutually agreed upon treatment plan rather than encouraging the client to surrender
personal autonomy in the decision-making.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 50
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
2. A nurse completes a cultural assessment of an older adult who is being admitted to an assisted
living facility. Reasons for completing a cultural assessment include: (Select all that apply.)
a. culture guides decision-making about health, illness, and preventive care.
b. culture provides direction for individuals on how to interact during health care
encounters.
c. culture impacts attitudes toward aging.
d. all members of a culture react in the same way in similar situations.
e. knowledge of culture eliminates health care disparities.
ANS: A, B, C
Although knowledge of culture has the potential to optimize care, not all individuals will
respond in the same way to a specific situation. Knowledge of an individual’s culture will not
eliminate health care disparities.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 49–50
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
3. A nurse in the ambulatory care setting is preparing to do an interview with a
non-English-speaking client. The nurse secures an interpreter. In order to have the most
effective interview, the nurse should do which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Look and speak to the interpreter
b. Use technical terminology to ensure accuracy
c. Allow more time for the interview
d. Watch the client’s nonverbal communication
e. Have the interpreter check whether the client understands the communication
ANS: C, D
For the most effective interview the nurse should look and speak directly to the client, avoid
the use of jargon and technical terminology, observe the client’s nonverbal communications,
and clarify understanding by asking the client to state in his/her own words what he or she
understood, facilitated by the interpreter. The interview will take longer.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 48
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
communication as a means of obtaining insight into the client’s perspective of his or her
medical problem. This model also encourages the nurse to recognize that the perceptions may
differ and to explain the differences in perceptions to the client. The model advocates arriving
at a mutually agreed upon treatment plan rather than encouraging the client to surrender
personal autonomy in the decision-making.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 50
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
2. A nurse completes a cultural assessment of an older adult who is being admitted to an assisted
living facility. Reasons for completing a cultural assessment include: (Select all that apply.)
a. culture guides decision-making about health, illness, and preventive care.
b. culture provides direction for individuals on how to interact during health care
encounters.
c. culture impacts attitudes toward aging.
d. all members of a culture react in the same way in similar situations.
e. knowledge of culture eliminates health care disparities.
ANS: A, B, C
Although knowledge of culture has the potential to optimize care, not all individuals will
respond in the same way to a specific situation. Knowledge of an individual’s culture will not
eliminate health care disparities.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: pp. 49–50
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
3. A nurse in the ambulatory care setting is preparing to do an interview with a
non-English-speaking client. The nurse secures an interpreter. In order to have the most
effective interview, the nurse should do which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Look and speak to the interpreter
b. Use technical terminology to ensure accuracy
c. Allow more time for the interview
d. Watch the client’s nonverbal communication
e. Have the interpreter check whether the client understands the communication
ANS: C, D
For the most effective interview the nurse should look and speak directly to the client, avoid
the use of jargon and technical terminology, observe the client’s nonverbal communications,
and clarify understanding by asking the client to state in his/her own words what he or she
understood, facilitated by the interpreter. The interview will take longer.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 48
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Loading page 20...
Chapter 05: Cognition and Learning
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Health literacy is defined as:
a. the capacity to read basic health information in order to make appropriate health
decisions.
b. the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information needed to
make appropriate health decisions.
c. the capacity to read and write in order to access health care.
d. the capacity to read and execute health care documents.
ANS: B
Health literacy involves more than basic reading and writing skills. It involves the ability to
obtain, process, and understand health information in order to make health care decisions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: pp. 60–61
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The daughter of an older hospitalized patient tells a nurse: “I am worried about my father. His
memory is sharper when he is at home. He is forgetful, but is functional. Since he has been
hospitalized his memory problems are much worse.” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “It is common for long-term memory to be more impacted by age-related changes
than short-term memory.”
b. “Memory changes are often worse when an individual is in an unfamiliar or
stressful situation.”
c. “Perhaps you are just noticing your father’s memory loss now that he is
hospitalized.”
d. “There is a lot of new information for your father to process here in the hospital;
he is overloaded.”
ANS: B
Memory changes are often worse when the individual is in unfamiliar or stressful situations,
such as a hospitalization. Option A is not true, short-term memory is impacted more than
long-term memory. Options C and D are true; however, they do not address the issue that the
patient’s daughter is discussing.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. An older resident in a senior community tells a nurse: “I am really worried. I joined an
exercise class, and I just learned everyone’s name yesterday, and I cannot remember them all
today. Am I developing Alzheimer’s disease?” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “You should be concerned. It is very unusual to forget something that you just
learned.”
b. “There is no reason to be concerned. Short-term memory decreases with age.”
c. “Don’t worry, a decline in both short- and long-term memory is a normal part of
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. Health literacy is defined as:
a. the capacity to read basic health information in order to make appropriate health
decisions.
b. the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information needed to
make appropriate health decisions.
c. the capacity to read and write in order to access health care.
d. the capacity to read and execute health care documents.
ANS: B
Health literacy involves more than basic reading and writing skills. It involves the ability to
obtain, process, and understand health information in order to make health care decisions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: pp. 60–61
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. The daughter of an older hospitalized patient tells a nurse: “I am worried about my father. His
memory is sharper when he is at home. He is forgetful, but is functional. Since he has been
hospitalized his memory problems are much worse.” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “It is common for long-term memory to be more impacted by age-related changes
than short-term memory.”
b. “Memory changes are often worse when an individual is in an unfamiliar or
stressful situation.”
c. “Perhaps you are just noticing your father’s memory loss now that he is
hospitalized.”
d. “There is a lot of new information for your father to process here in the hospital;
he is overloaded.”
ANS: B
Memory changes are often worse when the individual is in unfamiliar or stressful situations,
such as a hospitalization. Option A is not true, short-term memory is impacted more than
long-term memory. Options C and D are true; however, they do not address the issue that the
patient’s daughter is discussing.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. An older resident in a senior community tells a nurse: “I am really worried. I joined an
exercise class, and I just learned everyone’s name yesterday, and I cannot remember them all
today. Am I developing Alzheimer’s disease?” The best response by the nurse is:
a. “You should be concerned. It is very unusual to forget something that you just
learned.”
b. “There is no reason to be concerned. Short-term memory decreases with age.”
c. “Don’t worry, a decline in both short- and long-term memory is a normal part of
Loading page 21...
getting older.”
d. “Although it is normal to have some changes in memory, forgetting names is very
unusual.”
ANS: B
Even though some older adults show decrements in the ability to process information, the
majority of functioning remains intact. Age-associated memory impairment is used to
describe memory loss that is considered normal for one’s age and educational level. It may
include slowness in processing, storing, and recalling new information and difficulty
remembering names and words.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse is developing an educational session for a group of older adults at a senior center.
Which of the following would the nurse include in the education? (Select all that apply.)
a. Attention span, language, and communication skills typically remain stable with
increasing age
b. Older brains slow down and take longer to process constantly increasing amounts
of information
c. In order to preserve brain function, it is important to engage in challenging
cognitive activities
d. Older adults are not able to develop new cognitive abilities
e. Individuals over age 100 have a higher prevalence of dementia than younger
individuals
ANS: A, B, C
Older adulthood is no longer seen as a period when cognitive development is halted; it is a life
stage where unique capacities are developed. Centenarians and super-centenarians have a
lower prevalence of dementia then those under age 100.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. An older female resident of an assisted living facility says the following to a nurse: “I am very
frightened about getting dementia. I have read a lot about brain exercises, but I am not sure
what I should be doing.” The nurse formulates a response based on knowledge of which of the
following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Individuals should engage in some type of brain fitness activity a couple of times a
week for at least 25 minutes
b. Brain fitness activities are only effective if an individual has not experienced any
memory problems at all
c. Brain fitness activities may include computer-based games, memory training,
board games, reading, and engaging in conversation
d. Physical activity is important for wellness but is unrelated to brain fitness
e. Individuals should choose brain exercise activities that are unfamiliar, challenging,
d. “Although it is normal to have some changes in memory, forgetting names is very
unusual.”
ANS: B
Even though some older adults show decrements in the ability to process information, the
majority of functioning remains intact. Age-associated memory impairment is used to
describe memory loss that is considered normal for one’s age and educational level. It may
include slowness in processing, storing, and recalling new information and difficulty
remembering names and words.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse is developing an educational session for a group of older adults at a senior center.
Which of the following would the nurse include in the education? (Select all that apply.)
a. Attention span, language, and communication skills typically remain stable with
increasing age
b. Older brains slow down and take longer to process constantly increasing amounts
of information
c. In order to preserve brain function, it is important to engage in challenging
cognitive activities
d. Older adults are not able to develop new cognitive abilities
e. Individuals over age 100 have a higher prevalence of dementia than younger
individuals
ANS: A, B, C
Older adulthood is no longer seen as a period when cognitive development is halted; it is a life
stage where unique capacities are developed. Centenarians and super-centenarians have a
lower prevalence of dementia then those under age 100.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 56
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. An older female resident of an assisted living facility says the following to a nurse: “I am very
frightened about getting dementia. I have read a lot about brain exercises, but I am not sure
what I should be doing.” The nurse formulates a response based on knowledge of which of the
following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Individuals should engage in some type of brain fitness activity a couple of times a
week for at least 25 minutes
b. Brain fitness activities are only effective if an individual has not experienced any
memory problems at all
c. Brain fitness activities may include computer-based games, memory training,
board games, reading, and engaging in conversation
d. Physical activity is important for wellness but is unrelated to brain fitness
e. Individuals should choose brain exercise activities that are unfamiliar, challenging,
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and fun
ANS: A, C, E
Brain fitness activities are effective for individuals with normal memory or mild memory
problems. Physical activity is important and has an impact on improving reaction time and
working memory as well as posture, balance, and socialization.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 57
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A nurse is planning a fall prevention education refresher session for the residents of a
long-term care facility. The individuals are all cognitively intact and range in age from 80 to
100. The previous education on fall prevention was presented 2 months ago. What special
considerations should the nurse take in relation to teaching this group of older adults? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Make sure that all pamphlets are in large readable font (14-16 points) and include
upper and lower case lettering
b. Start education on falls from the beginning. It is unlikely that anyone remembers
previous material
c. Present all the information at once in one long session
d. Ensure that there is adequate lighting in the room and that the temperature is
comfortable
e. Provide ongoing positive feedback during the session
ANS: A, D, E
When educating older adults it is important that it is pertinent and build upon information that
they already possess. It is a myth that all older adults experience memory problems. It is
important to provide adequate time for learning and to use self-paced techniques.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 57–60
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nurse hears a colleague state the following: “Can you believe that Mr. Jones’ daughter just
bought him a tablet computer? He is 90 years old. It is ridiculous to think that he can learn to
use it.” The nurse formulates a response based on research that shows: (Select all that apply.)
a. older adults comprise the fastest growing population using computers and the
Internet.
b. Internet use is less prevalent in individuals over age 75 than those ages 65-74.
c. older American men are the fastest growing group of social networking site users.
d. older adults use the Internet only for social networking and recreational uses.
e. technology has the potential to improve quality of life for older adults.
ANS: A, B, E
Older adults are the fastest growing population using computers and the Internet. Internet use
does decrease in those over age 75 as compared to older adults less than age 75. Older women
are the fastest growing group of individuals using social networking sites. Older adults use
technology for a whole host of reasons, both social and to communicate with health care
providers and access health information. Technology has a large potential to improve quality
of life for older adults.
ANS: A, C, E
Brain fitness activities are effective for individuals with normal memory or mild memory
problems. Physical activity is important and has an impact on improving reaction time and
working memory as well as posture, balance, and socialization.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 57
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A nurse is planning a fall prevention education refresher session for the residents of a
long-term care facility. The individuals are all cognitively intact and range in age from 80 to
100. The previous education on fall prevention was presented 2 months ago. What special
considerations should the nurse take in relation to teaching this group of older adults? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Make sure that all pamphlets are in large readable font (14-16 points) and include
upper and lower case lettering
b. Start education on falls from the beginning. It is unlikely that anyone remembers
previous material
c. Present all the information at once in one long session
d. Ensure that there is adequate lighting in the room and that the temperature is
comfortable
e. Provide ongoing positive feedback during the session
ANS: A, D, E
When educating older adults it is important that it is pertinent and build upon information that
they already possess. It is a myth that all older adults experience memory problems. It is
important to provide adequate time for learning and to use self-paced techniques.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: pp. 57–60
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. A nurse hears a colleague state the following: “Can you believe that Mr. Jones’ daughter just
bought him a tablet computer? He is 90 years old. It is ridiculous to think that he can learn to
use it.” The nurse formulates a response based on research that shows: (Select all that apply.)
a. older adults comprise the fastest growing population using computers and the
Internet.
b. Internet use is less prevalent in individuals over age 75 than those ages 65-74.
c. older American men are the fastest growing group of social networking site users.
d. older adults use the Internet only for social networking and recreational uses.
e. technology has the potential to improve quality of life for older adults.
ANS: A, B, E
Older adults are the fastest growing population using computers and the Internet. Internet use
does decrease in those over age 75 as compared to older adults less than age 75. Older women
are the fastest growing group of individuals using social networking sites. Older adults use
technology for a whole host of reasons, both social and to communicate with health care
providers and access health information. Technology has a large potential to improve quality
of life for older adults.
Loading page 23...
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 58
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
Loading page 24...
Chapter 06: Communicating with Older Adults
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When caring for an ill adult client, the nurse is particularly concerned that the client
communicates well since:
a. assessment, planning of care, and even the therapeutic relationship is based on
effective communication.
b. it is the social connection that all individuals base interpersonal relationships upon.
c. how well an individual communicates is a reflection on both his or her physical
and emotional well-being.
d. the need to communicate is a basic need of all individuals.
ANS: A
Good communication skills are the basis for accurate assessment, care planning, and the
development of therapeutic relationships between the nurse and the older person. While the
other options are true they do not directly address the concerns of an ailing client.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 65
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which statement by the nurse is the strongest example of ageism by professional nurses?
a. “It takes a special nurse to provide good care to the older population of clients.”
b. “It’s difficult for a nurse to develop an effective relationship with an older client
because of the barriers their age creates.”
c. “It is so difficult to find nurses who are truly effective geriatric nurses.”
d. “With the older population increasing so dramatically in numbers, nursing will
have a difficult time meeting their needs.”
ANS: C
Ageism affects health professionals as well as the general public and this attitude is reflected
in the lack of nurses who choose to work in the field of geriatrics. The characteristics of a
“good geriatric nurse” are no different than those of any effective nurse. Assuming that age
produces barriers to an effective nurse-client relationship is an example of ageism. The
growing number of older adults is not an example of ageism.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 66
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. When conducting an admissions interview with an older client, the nurse observes that the
client pauses for a period of time before responding to the questions. The nurse responds to
this client based on the assumption that the client is:
a. exhibiting signs of mild cognitive impairment.
b. nervous and having difficulty concentrating on the questions.
c. reluctant to share information with someone with whom he or she has no
relationship.
d. sorting through his or her vast life experiences in order to answer appropriately.
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. When caring for an ill adult client, the nurse is particularly concerned that the client
communicates well since:
a. assessment, planning of care, and even the therapeutic relationship is based on
effective communication.
b. it is the social connection that all individuals base interpersonal relationships upon.
c. how well an individual communicates is a reflection on both his or her physical
and emotional well-being.
d. the need to communicate is a basic need of all individuals.
ANS: A
Good communication skills are the basis for accurate assessment, care planning, and the
development of therapeutic relationships between the nurse and the older person. While the
other options are true they do not directly address the concerns of an ailing client.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 65
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which statement by the nurse is the strongest example of ageism by professional nurses?
a. “It takes a special nurse to provide good care to the older population of clients.”
b. “It’s difficult for a nurse to develop an effective relationship with an older client
because of the barriers their age creates.”
c. “It is so difficult to find nurses who are truly effective geriatric nurses.”
d. “With the older population increasing so dramatically in numbers, nursing will
have a difficult time meeting their needs.”
ANS: C
Ageism affects health professionals as well as the general public and this attitude is reflected
in the lack of nurses who choose to work in the field of geriatrics. The characteristics of a
“good geriatric nurse” are no different than those of any effective nurse. Assuming that age
produces barriers to an effective nurse-client relationship is an example of ageism. The
growing number of older adults is not an example of ageism.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 66
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. When conducting an admissions interview with an older client, the nurse observes that the
client pauses for a period of time before responding to the questions. The nurse responds to
this client based on the assumption that the client is:
a. exhibiting signs of mild cognitive impairment.
b. nervous and having difficulty concentrating on the questions.
c. reluctant to share information with someone with whom he or she has no
relationship.
d. sorting through his or her vast life experiences in order to answer appropriately.
Loading page 25...
ANS: D
Basically, elders may need more time to give information or answer questions simply because
they have a larger life experience to draw from. Sorting through thoughts requires intervals of
silence, and therefore listening carefully without rushing the elder is very important. It is an
unfounded assumption to assume that the client’s response is due to senility based exclusively
on his or her age. The remaining options would not be unique to an older client but might be
experienced at any age.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Which technique is most effective when communicating with a client who is positioned in
bed?
a. Sitting in a chair at the foot of the bed
b. Standing near the client’s head on his or her dominant side
c. Sitting in a chair at the bedside facing the client
d. Standing at the foot of the bed
ANS: C
When communicating with individuals in a bed or wheelchair, position yourself at their level
and directly face them rather than talking over a side rail or standing above them.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. Which nursing statement shows a true appreciation for an older client’s willingness to tell his
personal stories about “the war”?
a. “It’s so nice to see them excited and engaged as they tell the stories.”
b. “It helps their memory so much to retell their stories.”
c. “I learn so much about clients when they share their life story with me.”
d. “They are so proud of the things they have accomplished in their life.”
ANS: C
A memory is an incredible gift given to the nurse, a sharing of a part of oneself when one may
have little else to give, and it provides insight into who the person really is telling the story.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse manager is providing a novice geriatric nurse with guidelines when encouraging an
older client to reminisce about his or her life and past experiences. Which suggestions will be
included? (Select all that apply.)
a. Don’t correct the client even when you suspect the memory is incorrect
b. When the focus remains on sad topics, assess the client for possible depression
c. Refrain from interjecting personal stories into the reminiscing process
Basically, elders may need more time to give information or answer questions simply because
they have a larger life experience to draw from. Sorting through thoughts requires intervals of
silence, and therefore listening carefully without rushing the elder is very important. It is an
unfounded assumption to assume that the client’s response is due to senility based exclusively
on his or her age. The remaining options would not be unique to an older client but might be
experienced at any age.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. Which technique is most effective when communicating with a client who is positioned in
bed?
a. Sitting in a chair at the foot of the bed
b. Standing near the client’s head on his or her dominant side
c. Sitting in a chair at the bedside facing the client
d. Standing at the foot of the bed
ANS: C
When communicating with individuals in a bed or wheelchair, position yourself at their level
and directly face them rather than talking over a side rail or standing above them.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. Which nursing statement shows a true appreciation for an older client’s willingness to tell his
personal stories about “the war”?
a. “It’s so nice to see them excited and engaged as they tell the stories.”
b. “It helps their memory so much to retell their stories.”
c. “I learn so much about clients when they share their life story with me.”
d. “They are so proud of the things they have accomplished in their life.”
ANS: C
A memory is an incredible gift given to the nurse, a sharing of a part of oneself when one may
have little else to give, and it provides insight into who the person really is telling the story.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 67
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse manager is providing a novice geriatric nurse with guidelines when encouraging an
older client to reminisce about his or her life and past experiences. Which suggestions will be
included? (Select all that apply.)
a. Don’t correct the client even when you suspect the memory is incorrect
b. When the focus remains on sad topics, assess the client for possible depression
c. Refrain from interjecting personal stories into the reminiscing process
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d. Expect and respect a degree of repetition
e. Use close-ended questions to help focus the reminiscing
ANS: A, B, D
Suggestions for encouraging reminiscing include listening without correction or criticism,
remembering that it is the client’s recollections that are important; being patient with
repetition since sometimes people need to tell the same story often to come to terms with the
experience, especially if it was very meaningful to them; being attuned to signs of depression
in conversation (dwelling on sad topics) or changes in physical status or behavior, and
providing appropriate assessment and intervention; and keeping the conversation focused on
the person reminiscing, but not hesitating to share some of your own memories that relate to
the situation being discussed. Use open-ended questions to encourage reminiscing since they
encourage free thought.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 68, Box 6-3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which intervention is therapeutic when facilitating communication with a cognitively
impaired older client? (Select all that apply.)
a. Explain a task using simple, concise phrasing and one step at a time
b. Give instructions to a group whenever possible to provide peer support
c. Allow for additional time for the client to respond to questions or directions
d. Use nonverbal as well as verbal cues to help get your message across to the client
e. Speak loudly to gain and retain the client’s attention
ANS: A, C, D
Useful strategies for communicating with individuals experiencing cognitive impairment
include giving one-step directions, allowing time for the expected response, and giving clues
and cues as to what you want the person to do. It is also helpful to interact with one person at
a time and to speak slowly rather than loudly.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 69
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. Which of the following are examples of elderspeak? (Select all that apply.)
a. A nursing assistant refers to one of her patients as “grandma”
b. A nurse attempts to medicate a patient and states, “Now come on and be a good
girl”
c. A nurse explains a procedure to a patient using simple nonmedical terms
d. A nurse makes sure that she is directly facing a patient who has hearing loss when
she is speaking
e. A nursing assistant tells a patient, “It is time for our bath now”
ANS: A, B, E
Elderspeak is a form of patronizing speech. Examples include using diminutives or pet names,
speaking very slowly, and speaking to older adults as if they were children, or using collective
pronouns. Option C is not an example of elderspeak; it is appropriate to explain a procedure
using nonmedical terminology. Option D is the correct manner in which to address an
individual with hearing loss; facing the patient allows the patient to read lips.
e. Use close-ended questions to help focus the reminiscing
ANS: A, B, D
Suggestions for encouraging reminiscing include listening without correction or criticism,
remembering that it is the client’s recollections that are important; being patient with
repetition since sometimes people need to tell the same story often to come to terms with the
experience, especially if it was very meaningful to them; being attuned to signs of depression
in conversation (dwelling on sad topics) or changes in physical status or behavior, and
providing appropriate assessment and intervention; and keeping the conversation focused on
the person reminiscing, but not hesitating to share some of your own memories that relate to
the situation being discussed. Use open-ended questions to encourage reminiscing since they
encourage free thought.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 68, Box 6-3
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Which intervention is therapeutic when facilitating communication with a cognitively
impaired older client? (Select all that apply.)
a. Explain a task using simple, concise phrasing and one step at a time
b. Give instructions to a group whenever possible to provide peer support
c. Allow for additional time for the client to respond to questions or directions
d. Use nonverbal as well as verbal cues to help get your message across to the client
e. Speak loudly to gain and retain the client’s attention
ANS: A, C, D
Useful strategies for communicating with individuals experiencing cognitive impairment
include giving one-step directions, allowing time for the expected response, and giving clues
and cues as to what you want the person to do. It is also helpful to interact with one person at
a time and to speak slowly rather than loudly.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 69
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. Which of the following are examples of elderspeak? (Select all that apply.)
a. A nursing assistant refers to one of her patients as “grandma”
b. A nurse attempts to medicate a patient and states, “Now come on and be a good
girl”
c. A nurse explains a procedure to a patient using simple nonmedical terms
d. A nurse makes sure that she is directly facing a patient who has hearing loss when
she is speaking
e. A nursing assistant tells a patient, “It is time for our bath now”
ANS: A, B, E
Elderspeak is a form of patronizing speech. Examples include using diminutives or pet names,
speaking very slowly, and speaking to older adults as if they were children, or using collective
pronouns. Option C is not an example of elderspeak; it is appropriate to explain a procedure
using nonmedical terminology. Option D is the correct manner in which to address an
individual with hearing loss; facing the patient allows the patient to read lips.
Loading page 27...
DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 66
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
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Chapter 07: Health Assessment
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The FANCAPES assessment tool focuses on the older adult’s:
a. ability to meet personal needs to identify the amount of assistance needed.
b. ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).
c. cognitive abilities.
d. level of dementia present.
ANS: A
The FANCAPES assessment tool focuses on physical functioning and evaluates the
individual’s ability to meet his/her needs and how much assistance is needed to meet the
needs. FANCAPES evaluates physical functioning. IADLs involve more than just physical
functioning. FANCAPES does not assess cognitive function, nor does it assess dementia.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 79
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A limitation of the Katz Index of activities of daily living (ADLs) is that:
a. completion of the tool requires the joint efforts of the interdisciplinary team.
b. all ADLs are weighted equally.
c. it puts a heavier weight on the cognitive abilities necessary to perform ADLs.
d. it provides a range of performance for each task.
ANS: B
The Katz Index assigns an equal weight to all of the ADLs, and because of that, it cannot be
used to identify the particular area of need or change in any one task. Any health care
professional can complete the Katz Index, although input from the interdisciplinary team is
valuable. The Katz Index does not address the cognitive abilities necessary to perform ADLs.
The ADLs are considered in dichotomous terms only, the ability to compete the task
independently or the complete inability to do so.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 80
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A 78-year-old man is being evaluated in the geriatric clinic. His daughter reports that he has
been very forgetful lately, and she is concerned that he might be “senile.” The advanced
practice nurse administers the clock-drawing test and the patient draws a distorted circular
shape and places the numbers all on one side of the shape. Based on his performance, the
nurse concludes that the patient:
a. probably has Alzheimer’s disease.
b. needs further evaluation.
c. probably has delirium.
d. needs a functional status assessment.
ANS: B
Touhy: Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging, 9th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The FANCAPES assessment tool focuses on the older adult’s:
a. ability to meet personal needs to identify the amount of assistance needed.
b. ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).
c. cognitive abilities.
d. level of dementia present.
ANS: A
The FANCAPES assessment tool focuses on physical functioning and evaluates the
individual’s ability to meet his/her needs and how much assistance is needed to meet the
needs. FANCAPES evaluates physical functioning. IADLs involve more than just physical
functioning. FANCAPES does not assess cognitive function, nor does it assess dementia.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 79
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. A limitation of the Katz Index of activities of daily living (ADLs) is that:
a. completion of the tool requires the joint efforts of the interdisciplinary team.
b. all ADLs are weighted equally.
c. it puts a heavier weight on the cognitive abilities necessary to perform ADLs.
d. it provides a range of performance for each task.
ANS: B
The Katz Index assigns an equal weight to all of the ADLs, and because of that, it cannot be
used to identify the particular area of need or change in any one task. Any health care
professional can complete the Katz Index, although input from the interdisciplinary team is
valuable. The Katz Index does not address the cognitive abilities necessary to perform ADLs.
The ADLs are considered in dichotomous terms only, the ability to compete the task
independently or the complete inability to do so.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 80
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. A 78-year-old man is being evaluated in the geriatric clinic. His daughter reports that he has
been very forgetful lately, and she is concerned that he might be “senile.” The advanced
practice nurse administers the clock-drawing test and the patient draws a distorted circular
shape and places the numbers all on one side of the shape. Based on his performance, the
nurse concludes that the patient:
a. probably has Alzheimer’s disease.
b. needs further evaluation.
c. probably has delirium.
d. needs a functional status assessment.
ANS: B
Loading page 29...
Cognitively intact persons rarely produce errors on the clock-drawing test, such as grossly
distorted contour. A low score on the clock-drawing test requires further evaluation.
Alzheimer’s disease is not a diagnosis using a mental status assessment tool. It is definitively
diagnosed with a brain biopsy. The clock-drawing test does not assess for delirium. A low
score on the clock-drawing test does not necessarily warrant a functional status assessment.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 81
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. When comparing the Older American’s Resources and Services (OARS) with the Katz Index
of ADLs, what is true?
a. The Katz Index and the OARS both measure only ADL performance
b. The OARS is a comprehensive assessment tool that measures ability in five areas;
the Katz Index measures only ADL performance
c. The OARS is used only for older adults in the long-term care setting; the Katz
Index is used in all settings
d. The OARS is not valid for use in older adults who are cognitively impaired,
whereas the Katz Index is
ANS: B
The OARS evaluates ability, disability, and capacity at which the person is able to function.
Five dimensions are assessed: social resources, economic resources, physical health, mental
health, and ADLs. The Katz Index only evaluates ADL ability. Both instruments are used in a
variety of care settings and are valid for use with cognitively impaired older adults.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 84
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A resident of a long-term care facility is assessed by a nurse upon admission to the facility.
The assessment includes a comprehensive health, social, and functional profile. The tool that
the nurse utilizes is:
a. Outcomes and Assessment Information Set (OASIS).
b. Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI).
c. Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS).
d. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGS).
e. Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE).
ANS: B
The OASIS is used in the homecare setting. The RAI is used in the long-term care setting.
OARS is a functional status instrument. Comprehensive geriatric assessment is not a specific
tool but rather an approach to assessment. The MMSE is a mental status assessment tool.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 85
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
distorted contour. A low score on the clock-drawing test requires further evaluation.
Alzheimer’s disease is not a diagnosis using a mental status assessment tool. It is definitively
diagnosed with a brain biopsy. The clock-drawing test does not assess for delirium. A low
score on the clock-drawing test does not necessarily warrant a functional status assessment.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 81
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
4. When comparing the Older American’s Resources and Services (OARS) with the Katz Index
of ADLs, what is true?
a. The Katz Index and the OARS both measure only ADL performance
b. The OARS is a comprehensive assessment tool that measures ability in five areas;
the Katz Index measures only ADL performance
c. The OARS is used only for older adults in the long-term care setting; the Katz
Index is used in all settings
d. The OARS is not valid for use in older adults who are cognitively impaired,
whereas the Katz Index is
ANS: B
The OARS evaluates ability, disability, and capacity at which the person is able to function.
Five dimensions are assessed: social resources, economic resources, physical health, mental
health, and ADLs. The Katz Index only evaluates ADL ability. Both instruments are used in a
variety of care settings and are valid for use with cognitively impaired older adults.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 84
TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
5. A resident of a long-term care facility is assessed by a nurse upon admission to the facility.
The assessment includes a comprehensive health, social, and functional profile. The tool that
the nurse utilizes is:
a. Outcomes and Assessment Information Set (OASIS).
b. Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI).
c. Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS).
d. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGS).
e. Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE).
ANS: B
The OASIS is used in the homecare setting. The RAI is used in the long-term care setting.
OARS is a functional status instrument. Comprehensive geriatric assessment is not a specific
tool but rather an approach to assessment. The MMSE is a mental status assessment tool.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 85
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
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6. A nurse utilizes the SPICES tool (Sleep disorders, Problems with eating, Incontinence,
Confusion, Evidence of falls, and Skin breakdown) to assess an older female patient in the
hospital. The nurse notes that the patient has new onset urinary incontinence. The first action
by the nurse is to:
a. conduct a more in-depth focused assessment of the urinary incontinence.
b. call the provider and obtain an order for an antibiotic for a suspected urinary tract
infection.
c. send a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity.
d. develop a plan of care with the patient to control episodes of incontinence.
ANS: A
SPICES is an assessment tool. Anything that indicates a problem in any of the categories
warns the nurse that a more in-depth assessment is needed. The nurse needs to further assess
the urinary incontinence prior to implementing any interventions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 79
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse identifies a need to assess a patient’s cognitive status. The nurse chooses to use the
MMSE. The nurse knows that the patient must have which of the following abilities? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Number fluency
b. Familiarity with analog clocks
c. Ability to hear and see
d. Ability to sit up for 10 minutes
e. Ability to speak English
ANS: A, B, C
The MMSE requires number fluency, ability to see and hear and hold a pencil, and experience
with analog clocks. The instrument is available in languages other than English. It is a
cognitive status exam and does not require that the patient be able to sit up.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 81
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Factors that complicate assessment of older adults include: (Select all that apply.)
a. presence of multiple comorbid conditions.
b. atypical presentation of illness.
c. difficulty in differentiating symptoms of disease from normal age-related changes.
d. increase in iatrogenic illness.
e. lack of assessment instruments specific for the older adult population.
ANS: A, B, C, D
Factors that complicate assessment of older adults include difficulty differentiating disease
symptoms from normal age-related changes, the presence of multiple comorbidities, atypical
presentations of illness, and the presence of iatrogenic illness. There are many assessment
tools that are designed specifically for use in the older adult population.
Confusion, Evidence of falls, and Skin breakdown) to assess an older female patient in the
hospital. The nurse notes that the patient has new onset urinary incontinence. The first action
by the nurse is to:
a. conduct a more in-depth focused assessment of the urinary incontinence.
b. call the provider and obtain an order for an antibiotic for a suspected urinary tract
infection.
c. send a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity.
d. develop a plan of care with the patient to control episodes of incontinence.
ANS: A
SPICES is an assessment tool. Anything that indicates a problem in any of the categories
warns the nurse that a more in-depth assessment is needed. The nurse needs to further assess
the urinary incontinence prior to implementing any interventions.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyzing REF: p. 79
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. A nurse identifies a need to assess a patient’s cognitive status. The nurse chooses to use the
MMSE. The nurse knows that the patient must have which of the following abilities? (Select
all that apply.)
a. Number fluency
b. Familiarity with analog clocks
c. Ability to hear and see
d. Ability to sit up for 10 minutes
e. Ability to speak English
ANS: A, B, C
The MMSE requires number fluency, ability to see and hear and hold a pencil, and experience
with analog clocks. The instrument is available in languages other than English. It is a
cognitive status exam and does not require that the patient be able to sit up.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 81
TOP: Integrated Process: Teaching/Learning
MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
2. Factors that complicate assessment of older adults include: (Select all that apply.)
a. presence of multiple comorbid conditions.
b. atypical presentation of illness.
c. difficulty in differentiating symptoms of disease from normal age-related changes.
d. increase in iatrogenic illness.
e. lack of assessment instruments specific for the older adult population.
ANS: A, B, C, D
Factors that complicate assessment of older adults include difficulty differentiating disease
symptoms from normal age-related changes, the presence of multiple comorbidities, atypical
presentations of illness, and the presence of iatrogenic illness. There are many assessment
tools that are designed specifically for use in the older adult population.
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Subject
Nursing