Gerontological Nurse Test Nutrition and Hydration in the Elderly 3

Question 1

Which vitamin deficiency is most commonly associated with macrocytic anemia and peripheral neuropathy in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin B12

Answer

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in older adults due to reduced gastric acid and intrinsic factor production, causing macrocytic anemia and neurological symptoms including peripheral neuropathy.

Question 2

Which electrolyte imbalance is the hallmark finding of refeeding syndrome in a severely malnourished older adult?

Accepted Answer

Hypophosphatemia

Answer

Hypophosphatemia is the hallmark of refeeding syndrome because insulin released during carbohydrate refeeding drives phosphate into cells, causing a dangerous drop in serum phosphate levels.

Question 3

What is the recommended daily calcium intake for adults aged 71 and older according to the National Academy of Medicine?

Accepted Answer

1,200 mg/day

Answer

The National Academy of Medicine recommends 1,200 mg/day of calcium for adults over 70 years to help offset decreased absorption efficiency and maintain bone density.

Question 4

Which clinical findings are most characteristic of zinc deficiency in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Impaired wound healing and altered taste

Answer

Zinc deficiency characteristically causes impaired wound healing, dysgeusia (altered taste), and decreased immune function, all of which are clinically significant in older adults.

Question 5

A nurse is caring for an older adult receiving continuous enteral tube feeding via a nasogastric tube. Which complication requires the highest priority monitoring?

Accepted Answer

Aspiration pneumonia

Answer

Aspiration pneumonia is the most serious and life-threatening complication of enteral tube feeding in elderly patients, particularly those with impaired gag reflex, reduced mobility, or cognitive impairment.

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Nutrition and Hydration in the Elderly 3