Gerontological Nurse Test Nutrition and Hydration in the Elderly

Question 1

Which nutritional deficiency is most commonly identified in older adults residing in long-term care facilities?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D deficiency

Answer

Vitamin D deficiency is extremely prevalent in institutionalized elderly due to limited sun exposure and decreased skin synthesis capacity with aging.

Question 2

How does normal aging affect the sensation of thirst in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Thirst sensation decreases, increasing the risk of dehydration

Answer

Aging causes a blunting of the hypothalamic thirst mechanism, making older adults less likely to perceive or respond to dehydration cues.

Question 3

According to the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), a score of 17 to 23.5 indicates which nutritional status?

Accepted Answer

At risk for malnutrition

Answer

MNA scores of 17–23.5 indicate risk for malnutrition; scores below 17 indicate malnutrition and scores of 24 or above indicate normal nutritional status.

Question 4

What is the recommended daily protein intake for healthy older adults?

Accepted Answer

0.8–1.2 g/kg body weight

Answer

Current evidence supports 0.8–1.2 g/kg/day for healthy older adults, which is at or slightly above the standard adult RDA to preserve muscle mass.

Question 5

Which condition is most directly associated with inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis

Answer

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for maintaining bone mineral density; chronic deficiency leads to osteoporosis and increased fracture risk in older adults.

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Nutrition and Hydration in the Elderly