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Difficulty: EasyAging Process

During an initial data collection at a skilled nursing facility, a practical nurse assesses an older adult client. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as expected physiological changes of the aging process? Select all that apply.

  1. Decreased subcutaneous tissue and thinning of the epidermisAnswer
  2. Reduced sensitivity to the physiological sensation of thirstAnswer
  3. C
    Sudden onset of severe confusion that began earlier in the morning
  4. D
    A resting heart rate of 118 beats per minute with a blood pressure of 88/54 mm Hg
  5. Delayed gastric emptying and diminished intestinal motilityAnswer

Answer

The expected physiological changes of aging include decreased subcutaneous tissue, reduced thirst sensitivity, and delayed gastric emptying.
Normal physiological changes of aging occur gradually and affect multiple body systems. These include a reduction in subcutaneous fat and epidermal thickness, a diminished thirst mechanism, and decreased gastrointestinal motility. Identifying these as normal helps the nurse establish a baseline for the older adult client.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the question requirements
The question asks to identify normal, expected physiological changes associated with aging, as opposed to acute medical issues.
Differentiating between normal aging and signs of acute illness is a critical competency for safe nursing care.
2
Evaluate integumentary and gastrointestinal options
Thinning skin, decreased subcutaneous fat, and slower digestion are universally expected progressive changes in older adults.
Cellular aging naturally leads to decreased elasticity, tissue loss, and slower metabolic and peristaltic rates.
3
Evaluate cognitive and vital sign findings
Sudden confusion and borderline vital signs (tachycardia and hypotension) are identified as acute abnormalities.
Sudden confusion indicates delirium, and abnormal vital signs suggest shock or severe dehydration; neither is a normal part of aging.

Key Concept

Expected Physiological Changes of Aging
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Topics

Aging Process

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