Physiological Changes with Aging
Physiological Changes with Aging ( 10 Questions)
A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has dry skin and complains of feeling cold.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
This is wrong because drinking more water may not be enough to hydrate the skin if the skin barrier is impaired or damaged. Drinking water is important for overall health, but it does not directly affect the moisture content of the skin .
This is wrong because avoiding soap and hot water when bathing may not be sufficient to prevent dry skin. Soap can strip the natural oils from the skin, but so can hot water. It is recommended to use mild, non-soap cleansers and warm water instead of hot water when bathing .
This is wrong because wearing layers of clothing to keep warm may not address the underlying cause of feeling cold. Older adults may feel cold more than usual due to various factors, such as thinning of the skin, decreased blood circulation, reduced muscle mass, or hormonal changes .
Wearing layers of clothing may help to maintain body temperature, but it does not treat the cause of feeling cold.
This statement is based on the fact that dry skin is a common problem among older adults, especially in cold or dry weather. Applying moisturizer after bathing can help to lock in the moisture and prevent further water loss from the skin .
The correct answer is D.
“You should apply moisturizer to your skin after bathing.” This statement is based on the fact that dry skin is a common problem among older adults, especially in cold or dry weather. Applying moisturizer after bathing can help to lock in the moisture and prevent further water loss from the skin .
Choice A is wrong because drinking more water may not be enough to hydrate the skin if the skin barrier is impaired or damaged. Drinking water is important for overall health, but it does not directly affect the moisture content of the skin .
Choice B is wrong because avoiding soap and hot water when bathing may not be sufficient to prevent dry skin.
Soap can strip the natural oils from the skin, but so can hot water. It is recommended to use mild, non-soap cleansers and warm water instead of hot water when bathing .
Choice C is wrong because wearing layers of clothing to keep warm may not address the underlying cause of feeling cold. Older adults may feel cold more than usual due to various factors, such as thinning of the skin, decreased blood circulation, reduced muscle mass, or hormonal changes .
Wearing layers of clothing may help to maintain body temperature, but it does not treat the cause of feeling cold.
Normal ranges for skin moisture and body temperature vary depending on individual factors, such as age, health status, environment, and activity level.
However, some general guidelines are:.
• Skin moisture: The skin should feel soft and smooth, not rough or scaly.
The skin should not have cracks, flakes, or redness. The skin should have a normal color, not pale or grayish .
• Body temperature: The normal body temperature for adults is around 98.6°F (37°C), but it can vary slightly depending on the time of day, activity level, and other factors. A body temperature below 95°F (35°C) is considered hypothermia and requires immediate medical attention .