Physiological Changes with Aging
Physiological Changes with Aging ( 10 Questions)
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is 80 years old.The nurse notes that the client has low levels of iron, calcium and vitamin B12. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of this finding?
This statement indicates that the client understands that low levels of iron, calcium and vitamin B12 can be caused by inadequate dietary intake of these nutrients. Iron, calcium and vitamin B12 are mainly found in animal-based foods, such as meat, eggs, milk and cheese. A diet lacking in these foods can lead to vitamin deficiency anemia, which is a condition where the body produces fewer and larger red blood cells that cannot carry enough oxygen.
This is wrong because supplements may not be necessary or sufficient to correct these deficiencies.
Supplements can also interact with other medications or have side effects. The client should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
This is wrong because gastric acid inhibitors can actually worsen vitamin B12 deficiency.
Gastric acid inhibitors are medications that reduce the amount of stomach acid produced. However, stomach acid is needed to release vitamin B12 from food and to help it bind to a protein called intrinsic factor, which is essential for its absorption in the intestines.
Therefore, taking gastric acid inhibitors can impair vitamin B12 absorption and lead to deficiency.
This is wrong because reducing dairy consumption can further lower calcium intake.
Dairy products are a good source of calcium, which is a mineral that helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, which is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle.
The correct answer is A.
“I need to eat more foods that are rich in these nutrients.” This statement indicates that the client understands that low levels of iron, calcium and vitamin B12 can be caused by inadequate dietary intake of these nutrients. Iron, calcium and vitamin B12 are mainly found in animal-based foods, such as meat, eggs, milk and cheese. A diet lacking in these foods can lead to vitamin deficiency anemia, which is a condition where the body produces fewer and larger red blood cells that cannot carry enough oxygen.
Choice B is wrong because supplements may not be necessary or sufficient to correct these deficiencies.
Supplements can also interact with other medications or have side effects. The client should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
Choice C is wrong because gastric acid inhibitors can actually worsen vitamin B12 deficiency.
Gastric acid inhibitors are medications that reduce the amount of stomach acid produced. However, stomach acid is needed to release vitamin B12 from food and to help it bind to a protein called intrinsic factor, which is essential for its absorption in the intestines.
Therefore, taking gastric acid inhibitors can impair vitamin B12 absorption and lead to deficiency.
Choice D is wrong because reducing dairy consumption can further lower calcium intake.
Dairy products are a good source of calcium, which is a mineral that helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, which is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle.
Normal ranges for iron, calcium and vitamin B12 in the blood are:.
• Iron: 50 to 170 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) for men; 40 to 150 mcg/dL for women.
• Calcium: 8.5 to 10.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
• Vitamin B12: 200 to 900 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL).