Darlene Coleman is a 65-year-old woman who is generally in good health. She has a check-up visit with her gynaecologist annually. While assessing Darlene’s vital signs, height, and weight, the nurse...

Darlene Coleman is a 65-year-old woman who is generally in good health. She has a check-up visit with her gynaecologist annually. While assessing Darlene’s vital signs, height, and weight, the nurse notes a significant deviation from the data recorded during last year’s visit. Apparently, the patient has lost 2.5 cm (1 in.) in height during the last year. The nurse then shares this information with Darlene. The patient states, “I have always been short. You should see my mother who is much shorter than I am.”

1. As the nurse, how would you respond to the patient’s statement?

2. As you talk with Ms. Coleman, she asks you, “Is there any way to slow my declining height?” What could you recommend?