NCLEX-PN® ExaminationHealth Promotion and MaintenanceEasy
A 68-year-old client with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia is discussing lifestyle modifications with the practical nurse. The client expresses a desire to improve their overall health. Which of the following recommendations is most appropriate for the practical nurse to emphasize regarding regular physical activity?
- ALimiting physical activity to short walks around the house to avoid injury.
- BFocusing solely on strength training exercises twice a week to build muscle mass.
- CEngaging in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) three times a week for 30 minutes.
- DAiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
The recommended guideline for adults, including older adults, is at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is insufficient to achieve significant health benefits and is too restrictive.
- B. While important, strength training should be combined with aerobic activity for comprehensive health benefits.
- C. HIIT may be too strenuous for a client with hypertension and hyperlipidemia without prior assessment.
Adult Physical Activity Guidelines
Recommendations for the amount and type of physical activity adults should engage in to achieve significant health benefits.
- 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week.
Memory trick: Moderate Movement Makes Many Muscles Move.