HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

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Prepare for the HESI Health Assessment Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Understand each topic with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

When evaluating mid-upper arm circumference and triceps skinfold of an elderly man, what must the nurse remember?

These measurements are no longer necessary for the elderly.
Derived weight measures may be difficult to interpret because of wide ranges of normal.
These measurements may not be accurate because of changes in skin and fat distribution.
Measurements may be difficult to obtain if the patient is unable to flex his elbow to at least 90 degrees.

The correct answer is: These measurements may not be accurate because of changes in skin and fat distribution.

The correct response highlights the potential inaccuracy of mid-upper arm circumference and triceps skinfold measurements in elderly patients due to physiological changes associated with aging. As individuals age, their skin may lose elasticity and structural integrity, which affects how skinfold measurements are obtained. Additionally, shifts in fat distribution can lead to changes in body composition that may not be accurately represented by traditional measurement methods. For instance, older adults may experience sarcopenia, or a loss of muscle mass, leading to increased fat to lean tissue ratios that could skew skinfold measurement results. In the context of elderly care, it is vital for healthcare providers to understand these age-related changes and consider their implications when interpreting anthropometric data. This awareness is critical in ensuring accurate assessments of nutritional status and health risks in older adults.