Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which organic condition may lead to impaired baroreceptor function affecting blood pressure regulation?

1. Diabetes mellitus

2. Cardiac dysrhythmia

3. Chronic kidney disease

4. Age-related changes

The correct answer is: Age-related changes

The condition that may lead to impaired baroreceptor function affecting blood pressure regulation is age-related changes. As individuals age, physiological changes occur in the body that can impact multiple systems, including the cardiovascular system. Baroreceptors, which are specialized sensors located in the carotid arteries and aorta, play a crucial role in detecting changes in blood pressure and aiding in its regulation. With advancing age, the responsiveness of baroreceptors tends to decline due to factors such as decreased elasticity of arterial walls, reduced neural connections, and less efficient signaling pathways. These alterations can impair the body's ability to appropriately react to blood pressure fluctuations, leading to issues such as orthostatic hypotension or other dysregulations in blood pressure control. Understanding the impact of age-related changes on baroreceptor function is essential for managing patients’ cardiovascular health, especially in the adult-gerontology population, where these changes are prevalent.