Topic : Explain why obesity is undesirable in the elderly and what physiological effects this could have. Provide an example of a patient in which you might check these labs, perform a test, given an injection etc. and how the results or your new knowledge would or could affect your plan of care?
The topic come from Chapter 24 of your text. You may use the textbook as one reference as well as the learning materials posted within the course. However, you must also locate a scholarly article related to your aging discussion question. Your question should be stated in your initial discussion post and answered based on pathophysiological principles and specifically those related to aging. Remember, you should focus on the pathophysiology of the content for your initial and peer replies as well as applying your knowledge to Advanced Practice Nursing.
RUBRIC:
Discussion Question Rubric
Note: Scholarly resources are defined as evidence-based practice, peer-reviewed journals; textbook (do not rely solely on your textbook as a reference); and National Standard Guidelines. Review assignment instructions, as this will provide any additional requirements that are not specifically listed on the rubric.
Discussion Question Rubric – 100 PointsCriteriaExemplaryExceeds ExpectationsAdvancedMeets ExpectationsIntermediateNeeds ImprovementNoviceInadequateTotal PointsQuality of Initial PostProvides clear examples supported by course content and references.
Cites three or more references, using at least one new scholarly resource that was not provided in the course materials.
All instruction requirements noted.
40 pointsComponents are accurate and thoroughly represented, with explanations and application of knowledge to include evidence-based practice, ethics, theory, and/or role. Synthesizes course content using course materials and scholarly resources to support importantpoints.
Meets all requirements within the discussion instructions.
Cites two references.
35 pointsComponents are accurate and mostly represented primarily with definitions and summarization. Ideas may be overstated, with minimal contribution to the subject matter. Minimal application to evidence-based practice, theory, or role development. Synthesis of course content is present but missing depth and/or development.
Is missing one component/requirement of the discussion instructions.
Cites one reference, or references do not clearly support content.
Most instruction requirements are noted.
31 pointsAbsent application to evidence-based practice, theory, or role development. Synthesis of course content is superficial.
Demonstrates incomplete understanding of content and/or inadequate preparation.
No references cited.
Missing several instruction requirements.
Submits post late.
27 points40Peer Response PostOffers both supportive and alternative viewpoints to the discussion, using two or more scholarly references per peer post. Post provides additional value to the conversation.
All instruction requirements noted.
40 pointsEvidence of further synthesis of course content. Provides clarification and new information or insight related to the content of the peer’s post.
Response is supported by course content and a minimum of one scholarly reference per each peer post.
All instruction requirements noted.
35 pointsLacks clarification or new information. Scholarly reference supports the content in the peer post without adding new information or insight.
Missing reference from one peer post.
Partially followed instructions regarding number of reply posts.
Most instruction requirements are noted.
31 pointsPost is primarily a summation of peer’s post without further synthesis of course content.
Demonstrates incomplete understanding of content and/or inadequate preparation.
Did not follow instructions regarding number of reply posts.
Missing reference from peer posts.
Missing several instruction requirements.
Submits post late.
27 points40Frequency of DistributionInitial post and peer post(s) made on multiple separate days.
All instruction requirements noted.
10 pointsInitial post and peer post(s) made on multiple separate days.
8 pointsMinimum of two post options (initial and/or peer) made on separate days.
7 pointsAll posts made on same day.
Submission demonstrates inadequate preparation.
No post submitted.
6 points10OrganizationWell-organized content with a clear and complex purpose statement and content argument. Writing is concise with a logical flow of ideas
5 pointsOrganized content with an informative purpose statement, supportive content, and summary statement. Argument content is developed with minimal issues in content flow.
4 pointsPoor organization and flow of ideas distract from content. Narrative is difficult to follow and frequently causes reader to reread work.
Purpose statement is noted.
3 pointsIllogical flow of ideas. Prose rambles. Purpose statement is unclear or missing.
Demonstrates incomplete understanding of content and/or inadequate preparation.
No purpose statement.
Submits assignment late.
2 points5APA, Grammar, and SpellingCorrect APA formatting with no errors.
The writer correctly identifies reading audience, as demonstrated by appropriate language (avoids jargon and simplifies complex concepts appropriately).
Writing is concise, in active voice, and avoids awkward transitions and overuse of conjunctions.
There are no spelling, punctuation, or word-usage errors.
5 pointsCorrect and consistent APA formatting of references and cites all references used. No more than two unique APA errors.
The writer demonstrates correct usage of formal English language in sentence construction. Variation in sentence structure and word usage promotes readability.
There are minimal to no grammar, punctuation, or word-usage errors.
4 pointsThree to four unique APA formatting errors.
The writer occasionally uses awkward sentence construction or overuses/inappropriately uses complex sentence structure. Problems with word usage (evidence of incorrect use of thesaurus) and punctuation persist, often causing some difficulties with grammar. Some words, transitional phrases, and conjunctions are overused.
Multiple grammar, punctuation, or word usage errors.
3 pointsFive or more unique formatting errors or no attempt to format in APA.
The writer demonstrates limited understanding of formal written language use; writing is colloquial (conforms to spoken language).
The writer struggles with limited vocabulary and has difficulty conveying meaning such that only the broadest, most general messages are presented.
Grammar and punctuation are consistently incorrect. Spelling errors are numerous.
Submits assignment late.
2 points5Total Points100
Readings
Required
- VanMeter, K. C., & Hubert, R. J. (2014). Gould’s pathophysiology for the health professions. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders. ISBN 13-978-1455754113
- Chapter 24; Complications of Aging
Required Resources
- Martikainen, P., Bartley, M., & Lahelma, E. (2002). Psychosocial determinants of health in social epidemiology (PDF). International Journal Of Epidemiology, 31(6), 1091–1093.
- Sacher, A. G., & Detsky, A. S. (2009). Taking the stress out of morning report: an analytic approach to the differential diagnosis (PDF). Journal Of General Internal Medicine, 24(6)
Required Resources
- Eldercare Workforce Alliance
American Geriatrics
Expert Solution Preview
Obesity is undesirable in the elderly due to its negative physiological effects on their health. As individuals age, the metabolism slows down, muscle mass decreases, and body fat increases. These changes, combined with obesity, can lead to a variety of health problems.
One physiological effect of obesity in the elderly is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Excess body fat puts strain on the heart, leading to conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Additionally, obesity is associated with increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and plaque formation in the arteries.
Obesity in the elderly also affects musculoskeletal health. The excess weight can lead to joint pain, especially in weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, and ankles. It can also exacerbate age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, making mobility and physical activity challenging.
Another significant concern with obesity in the elderly is the increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Excess adipose tissue, especially abdominal fat, is associated with insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. This can lead to the development of diabetes, which further complicates the management of other chronic conditions commonly seen in the elderly.
An example of a patient in which it would be essential to check labs, perform tests, and adjust the plan of care based on the results would be an elderly individual with obesity, hypertension, and elevated fasting blood glucose levels. In this case, the healthcare provider may order laboratory tests such as a lipid panel, HbA1c level, and renal function tests to assess the patient’s cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Based on the results, the healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle interventions such as a tailored exercise program and dietary modifications to promote weight loss and improve glycemic control. They may also initiate or adjust medications to manage hypertension and diabetes, considering the potential impact of obesity on medication efficacy and dosing.
In summary, obesity in the elderly can have significant physiological effects, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems, and the development or worsening of type 2 diabetes. Healthcare providers must assess and manage these risks through regular monitoring of health indicators, adjusting treatment plans, and implementing lifestyle modifications to promote overall health and well-being in elderly individuals with obesity.
