Question

A nurse is caring for an older adult with a fluid imbalance. Which principle should the nurse consider when planning care for this client?

a) Older adults have increased total body water.
b) Older adults are less prone to dehydration.
c) Older adults have a higher thirst response.
d) Older adults have decreased renal function.

Answer 1

The nurse should consider that older adults typically have decreased renal function, which impacts fluid balance. They may also have a diminished thirst response, potentially leading to dehydration. Close monitoring of fluid intake and output is essential in their care.

Step-by-step explanation:

When planning care for an older adult with a fluid imbalance, the nurse should consider that older adults have decreased renal function. This is important because renal function affects the body's ability to control and maintain fluid balance. Older adults may have challenges with fluid retention due to decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and impaired renal concentrating ability.

With aging, there may also be a diminished response to antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which can hamper fluid conservation. As such, older adults are not less prone to dehydration, in fact, they may be at higher risk. Additionally, the thirst mechanism may become less sensitive with age, contributing to an increased risk of dehydration. Therefore, the nurse should closely monitor fluid intake and output, as well as consider the patient's overall ability to access and consume fluids independently.