Question

During the postoperative care of a 76-year-old patient, the nurse monitors the patient's intake and output carefully, knowing that the patient is at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances primarily because

a. older adults have an impaired thirst mechanism and need reminding to drink fluids.
b. water accounts for a greater percentage of body weight in the older adult than in younger adults
c. older adults are more likely than younger adults to lose extracellular fluid during surgical procedures
d. small losses of fluid are significant because body fluids account for 45% to 50% of body weight in older adults

Answer 1

The patient is at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances primarily because older adults often have an impaired thirst mechanism and may require reminders to consume fluids. Homeostatic balance is critical for dehydration prevention, with hormones like ADH aiding in water retention. Proper monitoring post-surgery is crucial due to increased risks in this population.

Step-by-step explanation:

The 76-year-old patient is at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances primarily because older adults have an impaired thirst mechanism and need reminding to drink fluids. As individuals age, they may experience a decreased ability to regulate their body's homeostasis, making them more susceptible to diseases and conditions such as dehydration. Correct intake and output monitoring are critical as physical and neurological challenges may discourage elderly individuals from sufficient fluid intake and urination.

Biological systems maintain water and electrolyte balance through intake from food and drink and the metabolic process of aerobic respiration, as well as output mechanisms like urination and insensible water loss. Dehydration can occur when water intake does not match output, resulting in conservation of water by the kidneys. The hormone ADH plays a crucial role in helping the body retain water by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys, which is especially important in older adults who may not feel as thirsty due to their impaired thirst mechanism.

Homeostatic imbalance in older patients can be exacerbated by surgical procedures which may lead to increased risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, careful monitoring of intake and output in the postoperative care of elderly patients is imperative to ensure their safety and recovery.