A hospitalized older adult screened positive for suicidal ideation but denies having a specific plan. Family states they will “watch him closely” at home. What is the priority nursing intervention?

A 84-year-old male, is brought to the clinic by his daughter, who is concerned about his poor appetite, frequent complaints of fullness after small meals, and recent 8-pound weight loss over the last month. He denies nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, but says he feels “stuffed” quickly and doesn’t enjoy food like he used to. His bowel habits are unchanged. Vital signs: BP: 128/76 HR: 78 Temp: 97.8°F Weight: 132 lbs (previously 140 lbs two months ago) Physical exam reveals a soft, non-distended abdomen with normal bowel sounds. He takes a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) daily for GERD. The nurse recognizes the need to assess for digestive system changes associated with aging. Which of the following age-related digestive changes is most likely contributing to his symptoms? 

Clinical Scenario:Your patient is a 72-year-old male with ventilator associated pneumonia and sepsis. The provider orders Vancomycin 15 mg/kg IV every 12 hours. The patient weighs 176 pounds. The pharmacy sends up Vancomycin 1000 mg in 250 mL of NS to be infused over 90 minutes via an IV pump. Vancomycin safe dose range: 15–20 mg/kg/dose IV q12 Is the ordered dose within the safe range for this patient? What infusion rate (in mL/hr) will you program into the IV pump?

A patient recovering from an acute diverticulitis episode asks about diet. Which teaching shows best clinical judgment?

A 78‑year‑old woman weighs 70 kg and is recovering from a recent hospitalization. The nurse notes she has decreased muscle mass and low protein intake. According to recommended guidelines for older adults, how much protein should this patient consume per day?

82‑year‑old male: dribbling, hesitancy, weak stream, “still feels full,” PVR 400 mL, ambulates independently.Priority action?

A 79‑year‑old woman reports “a strong urge out of nowhere, and I can’t make it in time.” Voids small volumes frequently, PVR = 35 mL, no dysuria, no fever. Neuro history: prior CVA.What is the most likely UI type and the best first‑line intervention?

An 84‑year‑old woman with mild cognitive impairment is admitted for dizziness and weakness. She has no swallowing difficulty and is physically able to hold a cup and drink independently. When the nurse offers fluids, the patient states, “I don’t drink much because I’m afraid I’ll wet myself.” Using the 4 categories of hydration problems, how should the nurse best classify why this patient is not adequately hydrated?

A 77-year-old patient repeatedly visits the clinic for vague physical complaints. Diagnostic testing is unremarkable. The patient appears poorly groomed, reports insomnia, and states, “Nothing helps anymore.” What is the nurse’s best next action?

An 80‑year‑old man is admitted for pneumonia. Twelve hours after admission, he becomes anxious, tremulous, hypertensive, and tachycardic. What should the nurse do first?