the nurse is assessing an 80 year old male patient which assessment finding would be considered normal the nurse is assessing an 80 year old male patient which assessment finding would be considered normal
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Exam Cram NCLEX RN Practice Questions

1. The nurse is assessing an 80-year-old male patient. Which assessment finding would be considered normal?

Correct answer: C: Presence of kyphosis and flexion in bilateral knees and hips

Rationale: In an 80-year-old male patient, the presence of kyphosis (rounded upper back) and flexion in bilateral knees and hips are considered normal age-related changes. These postural changes are commonly seen in older adults due to structural changes in the spine and joints. Option A is incorrect as aging individuals typically experience a decrease in body weight, not an increase. Option B is also incorrect as there is usually a decrease in subcutaneous fat from the face and periphery, rather than an increase in fat deposits in specific areas. Option D is incorrect because the change in overall body proportion with aging usually involves a shorter trunk and relatively longer extremities, not the other way around. This is because long bones do not shorten with age, leading to this characteristic change in body proportions.

2. The healthcare professional has collected the following information on a patient: palpated blood pressure—180 mm Hg; auscultated blood pressure—170/100 mm Hg; apical pulse—60 beats per minute; radial pulse—70 beats per minute. What is the patient’s pulse pressure?

Correct answer: B: 70

Rationale: Pulse pressure is the numerical difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. In this case, the systolic blood pressure is 170 mm Hg, and the diastolic blood pressure is 100 mm Hg. Therefore, the pulse pressure is calculated as 170 - 100 = 70 mm Hg. Pulse pressure reflects the stroke volume, the amount of blood ejected from the heart with each beat. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings provided.

3. What is the most useful patient position for proctologic exams?

Correct answer: Jack Knife

Rationale: The Jack Knife position is the most useful for proctologic exams as it allows the patient to lie face down while keeping the buttocks elevated, providing optimal access for the examination. The Trendelenburg position, characterized by the body being laid flat with the feet higher than the head, is not suitable for proctologic exams. Semi-Fowler's and Full Fowler's positions are typically utilized for respiratory or cardiovascular conditions and are not ideal for proctologic examinations due to their lack of optimal access to the perianal area.

4. Which of the following scenarios provides an example of a healthcare professional overcoming a barrier to communication?

Correct answer: A healthcare professional writes down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired.

Rationale: Overcoming barriers to communication in healthcare involves utilizing methods of communication that are accessible and understandable to the recipient. In the scenario provided, writing down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired is an effective way to ensure clear communication and overcome the obstacle of hearing impairment. This method allows the patient to visually comprehend the information provided. Choice A is incorrect because using a visual aid for a visually impaired patient, not a hearing-impaired patient, would be more appropriate. Choice C is incorrect as raising one's voice does not address the language barrier effectively and may not enhance understanding. Choice D is incorrect as using complex medical terms with a minor may lead to confusion and hinder effective communication.

5. A client is undergoing radiation therapy for treatment of thyroid cancer. Following the radiation, the client develops xerostomia. Which of the following best describes this condition?

Correct answer: Dry mouth

Rationale: Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a common side effect of radiation therapy in the head and neck region. It occurs when the salivary glands are damaged during treatment, reducing saliva production and causing a dry sensation in the mouth. The correct answer is 'Dry mouth' (option D). Choice A, 'Cracks in the corners of the mouth,' describes angular cheilitis, a condition linked to nutritional deficiencies or candida infection. Choice B, 'Peeling skin from the tongue and gums,' is more indicative of conditions like oral thrush or mucositis. Choice C, 'Increased dental caries,' is a consequence of reduced saliva flow but does not specifically describe xerostomia.

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