During an Interview, the Nurse Notes That an Older Patient

question 25

Multiple Choice

During an interview, the nurse notes that an older patient is having mild difficulty with some words and forgets the names of people. The patient is alert, oriented to time, person, and place, and makes appropriate responses. What does the nurse determine this patient's cognitive changes to mean?

• A) Normal signs of aging
• B) Early symptoms of dementia
• C) Indicators of depression in the elderly
• D) Memory impairment that may be related to cerebral ischemia

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Definitions:

Capillary Refill

The time taken for color to return to an external capillary bed after pressure is applied; used to assess circulatory status.

Hot Summer Day

A day characterized by high temperatures, typically during the summer season, which can lead to increased risks of heat-related illnesses.

Hypothermia

A medical condition where the body's core temperature drops below the normal required for normal metabolism and body functions, usually below 35.0°C (95.0°F).

Heat Exhaustion

A condition caused by excessive exposure to high temperatures, leading to dehydration and weakness.