Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What should a nurse screen for in an older adult with a long-term life partner?

1. Environmental risk factors

2. Sexual abuse

3. Family conflict

4. Chronic illnesses

The correct answer is: Chronic illnesses

In the context of care management for older adults, chronic illnesses are particularly significant to assess due to their prevalence and potential impact on quality of life. Older adults often experience multiple chronic conditions that can affect their overall health, mobility, and ability to perform daily activities. Screening for chronic illnesses allows for early identification and management of these conditions, potentially improving health outcomes and enhancing the individual's independence. Given that older adults frequently live with long-term life partners, it’s also important to consider how these chronic illnesses may not only affect the individual but also impact their partner. Managing chronic illnesses effectively often requires collaboration with caregivers and family members, making it essential for nurses to gather comprehensive health information. While the other factors—environmental risk factors, sexual abuse, and family conflict—are also relevant in the assessment of older adults, they typically do not have the same immediate and widespread effect on the individual's health status as chronic illnesses do. By prioritizing the screening for chronic illnesses, healthcare providers can put in place interventions that directly address the health needs of older adults and better support their continued well-being.