Question

An 89-year-old man came to the clinic for his annual checkup. Which finding related to pulmonary function would the nurse expect? A. An increase in functional alveoli B. A reduction of residual volume C. A decrease in vital capacity D. Blood gases that show mild acidosis

Short answer

C. A decrease in vital capacity

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The question is asking about the expected pulmonary function finding in an 89-year-old man during his annual checkup. Consider the changes in pulmonary function associated with aging.

Analyze Each Option

Review each of the given options: A. An increase in functional alveoliB. A reduction of residual volumeC. A decrease in vital capacityD. Blood gases that show mild acidosis

Evaluate the Options Using Knowledge of Aging

Evaluate each option based on common pulmonary changes due to aging: - Functional alveoli generally decrease with age, not increase, so option A is incorrect.- Residual volume typically increases with age due to less elastic lung tissue, so option B is incorrect.- Vital capacity decreases with age because the lungs and thoracic wall become less elastic, making option C correct.- Blood gases might show changes, but mild acidosis is not a direct or generalized finding, making option D less likely.

Determine the Correct Answer

After analyzing the options and considering the physiological changes in elderly patients, the correct answer is a decrease in vital capacity.

Key concepts

aging and respiratory system

The process of aging impacts all bodily systems, including the respiratory system. With age, various structural and functional changes occur in the lungs and breathing mechanisms. The elastic recoil of the lungs decreases, making it more challenging to expel air efficiently. Also, the chest wall becomes stiffer, reducing the overall lung capacity. The alveoli, tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs, may become enlarged but less functional. This leads to reduced surface area for oxygen exchange.

Additionally, cilia activity, which helps clear mucus and debris from the airways, decreases, leading to an increased risk of infections. Understanding these changes is crucial for healthcare providers overseeing the care of elderly patients.

vital capacity decline

Vital capacity refers to the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. It is a significant parameter in measuring lung function. In elderly individuals, vital capacity typically declines due to several factors. The decreased elasticity of lung tissues and the hardening of the thoracic cage mean that the lungs don't expand or contract as effectively.

Furthermore, muscle strength involved in breathing weakens with age. This makes it harder for elderly individuals to take deep breaths and fully expel air. Assessing vital capacity is an essential part of evaluating an elderly patient's respiratory health, as it can indicate decreased respiratory efficiency and potential issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

nursing assessment of elderly

Nurses play a vital role in assessing and managing the health of elderly patients. During a respiratory assessment, nurses should observe the patient's respiratory rate, effort, and pattern. They also check for any signs of respiratory distress, like wheezing or labored breathing. It's crucial to note the patient’s ability to perform daily activities, as reduced pulmonary function can significantly impact quality of life.

Elderly patients should be monitored for changes in vital signs, including oxygen saturation levels. A comprehensive assessment might include spirometry, which can measure vital capacity and other lung volumes.

Education is also a key component. Nurses should teach elderly patients about deep breathing exercises, the importance of staying active, and the need to avoid respiratory infections through vaccinations.