Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What is hyposmia in older patients?

1. Perception of an odor, when no odor exists

2. Reduction of the ability to smell

3. Distortion in the sense of smelling odors

4. No sense of smell

The correct answer is: Reduction of the ability to smell

Hyposmia refers specifically to a reduction in the ability to smell, which can significantly affect older patients. As individuals age, physiological changes and health conditions can contribute to sensory decline, including olfactory function. Hyposmia is particularly relevant in older adults as it may impact their quality of life, ability to enjoy food, and even safety (e.g., detecting smoke or spoiled food). This condition is often assessed through clinical evaluations that measure the recognition and perception of various odors. In contrast, the other choices describe different olfactory conditions. The perception of an odor when none exists is known as phantosmia. A distortion in the sense of smell would be classified as parosmia, while a complete loss of the sense of smell is termed anosmia. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for diagnosing and providing appropriate interventions for patients experiencing olfactory changes.