CPNRE - Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination Gerontological and Palliative Care Questions and Answers Flashcards

A client in palliative care expresses fear about dying alone. What is the most therapeutic nursing response?

Answer: Reassure the client that staff will be present as much as possible and discuss their wishes

Acknowledging the client's fear and discussing their wishes for presence provides emotional support and practical reassurance.

Which finding is an expected normal change of aging that the nurse should anticipate in elderly clients?

Answer: Decreased skin turgor

Decreased skin turgor is a normal physiological change of aging due to reduced collagen and elastin in the skin.

A confused elderly client keeps trying to climb out of bed. Before applying a restraint, the nurse should first:

Answer: Try least-restrictive alternatives such as repositioning, music, or a sitter

Least-restrictive alternatives must be attempted before restraints, as restraints carry significant risks including increased agitation and injury.

When assessing a palliative client for dehydration at end of life, the nurse should understand that:

Answer: Reduced fluid intake is a natural part of the dying process

Reduced food and fluid intake is a normal and expected part of the dying process and does not necessarily cause suffering.

The nurse is caring for an older adult with mild cognitive impairment. Which communication strategy is most effective?

Answer: Speak slowly, use simple sentences, and allow extra time for responses

Simple, clear language with adequate processing time supports effective communication with clients who have cognitive impairment.

A dying client's family asks why their loved one is not eating. The most appropriate nursing response is:

Answer: Explain that decreased appetite is a normal part of the dying process

Educating the family that decreased appetite is a natural part of dying provides comfort and helps them understand the process.