Practice Quiz

CRNE Canadian Registered Nurse

Category - Wellness

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Mrs. Jones, an 83-year-old female, is admitted to the health facility with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The client is at risk of pneumonia. To prevent complications, early detection and treatment are vital. A nurse identifies which of the following as the first symptom of pneumonia in the elderly?
  1. Altered mental status
  2. Pleuritic chest pain
  3. Dyspnea
  4. Fever and chills
Explanation
Answer: A - An altered mental status is the earliest symptom of pneumonia in the elderly. Pleuritic chest pain, fever and chills, and hemoptysis are common signs of pneumonia; however, it is important to note that older people have fewer or different symptoms than younger adults. The elderly are more vulnerable to infections because immune response decreases with aging.
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