Final answer:
A nurse should anticipate physiological changes including declining organ function, sensory impairment, and decreased mobility in older adults. Understanding these changes is crucial to providing appropriate, safe, and empathetic care, and to enhance patient independence and outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for an older adult should anticipate several physiological changes related to aging which can affect the patient's health and quality of life. Three such changes include:
- Declining organ function: Organs like the kidneys, heart, and lungs may work less efficiently, potentially leading to complications such as renal insufficiency, cardiovascular disease, or decreased pulmonary function.
- Sensory impairment: Aging may result in a decline in vision and hearing, which can impact communication and the ability to engage with the environment.
- Decreased mobility: Musculoskeletal changes, such as joint degeneration and muscle atrophy, can lead to reduced mobility and balance, increasing fall risk.
Understanding these aging-related changes is crucial for a nurse in order to provide individualized and compassionate care, improve patient safety, and help elderly patients maintain as much independence as possible. Additionally, awareness of these changes allows for early identification and intervention, potentially improving outcomes and the patient's quality of life.