An Older Patient Is Admitted for Bacterial Pneumonia

Multiple Choice

An older patient is admitted for bacterial pneumonia.The only abnormal assessment values include a heart rate of 102 beats per minute,slight cyanosis of the nail beds,and mild confusion.The patient's daughter questions the possibility of pneumonia stating,"He isn't coughing or having any difficulty breathing." The nurse responds most appropriately by saying:

A) "We are lucky to determine the problem in its early stage."
B) "Respiratory problems develop only after the infection is well established."
C) "People your dad's age often lack the muscular strength to cough."
D) "Older adults frequently lack the typical signs of a respiratory infection."