MNT Foot Care for Elderly Patients

Question 1

Which age-related change most increases the risk of nail pathology in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Reduced peripheral circulation, thinner epidermis, and slower nail regeneration

Answer

Aging reduces peripheral blood flow, thins the protective skin barrier, and slows nail growth and healing, increasing susceptibility to infection, trauma, and chronic nail deformities.

Question 2

When assessing footwear in an elderly patient, the primary concern is:

Accepted Answer

Fit, adequate toe box depth and width, non-slip sole, and ease of fastening

Answer

Poorly fitting footwear is the leading cause of nail and foot problems in elderly patients; proper fit prevents pressure injury, nail deformity, and falls.

Question 3

Which skin finding is most commonly observed on the feet of elderly patients during assessment?

Accepted Answer

Xerosis (dry skin), fissuring, and loss of subcutaneous fat padding

Answer

Aging skin loses sebaceous and sweat gland function, subcutaneous fat, and elasticity, resulting in dry, fragile skin prone to fissuring, particularly on the heels.

Question 4

The term 'digital ischemia' in elderly foot care refers to:

Accepted Answer

Insufficient blood supply to the toes causing tissue damage, pain, or non-healing wounds

Answer

Digital ischemia results from peripheral artery disease or small vessel disease, causing reduced oxygen delivery to toe tissue, increasing ulceration and gangrene risk.

Question 5

Orthopedic footwear for elderly patients with foot deformities (bunions, hammertoes) should provide:

Accepted Answer

A wide, deep toe box to accommodate deformities without pressure, with cushioned insoles

Answer

Accommodative orthopedic footwear protects bony prominences and toe deformities from pressure-induced ulceration while providing shock absorption.

(MNT) Certified Medical Nail Technician Practice Test

(MNT) Certified Medical Nail Technician Practice Test

MNT Foot Care for Elderly Patients