A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about physiological changes in the digestive system that occur with aging.
The nurse should include older adults might experience which of the following physiological changes?
Increased muscle tone of the bowel.
Increased gastric acid production.
Decreased pH of the stomach.
Decreased intestinal peristalsis.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Aging usually leads to a decrease in muscle tone of the bowel rather than an increase, which can result in slower bowel movements and constipation.
Choice B rationale
Gastric acid production tends to decrease with age, not increase. This can affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients, and also increase the risk of stomach infections.
Choice C rationale
The pH of the stomach tends to become less acidic (increase) as one ages, not decrease. This is often due to the reduced production of gastric acid.
Choice D rationale
Decreased intestinal peristalsis is a common physiological change in older adults. This slowing down of the intestinal movements can lead to constipation and other digestive issues.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Reflex incontinence is caused by neurological impairment or damage, such as spinal cord injury, which results in a loss of voluntary control over urination. The bladder muscle contracts involuntarily, causing urine leakage.
Choice B rationale
Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder cannot empty properly, leading to frequent or constant dribbling of urine. It is not typically associated with nerve damage from spinal cord injury.
Choice C rationale
Stress incontinence is caused by physical movement or activity—such as coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting—that puts pressure on the bladder, leading to urine leakage. It is not related to nerve damage or neurological conditions.
Choice D rationale
Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by involuntary urine leakage. It is usually caused by an overactive bladder or other conditions affecting bladder function, but not directly by nerve damage from spinal cord injury.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypothermia is not commonly associated with diarrhea. Diarrhea typically leads to fluid loss and dehydration rather than changes in body temperature.
Choice B rationale
A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding for diarrhea. It may indicate other gastrointestinal issues, such as peritonitis, rather than dehydration caused by diarrhea.
Choice C rationale
Decreased bowel sounds are not typically expected with diarrhea, which often presents with increased bowel sounds due to increased motility.
Choice D rationale
Dehydration is a common finding in clients with diarrhea due to the excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes from frequent, loose stools. It can lead to symptoms such as dry mouth, reduced urine output, and dizziness.