Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a typical symptom of pneumococcal pneumonia in older adults?

1. Productive cough

2. Fever

3. Chills

4. Lethargy

The correct answer is: Lethargy

Lethargy is not typically recognized as a primary symptom of pneumococcal pneumonia in older adults. While older adults may experience lethargy, especially if they are generally frail or have multiple comorbidities, it is not a specific or defining symptom of pneumococcal pneumonia itself. Instead, the more characteristic symptoms include a productive cough, fever, and chills. In cases of pneumococcal pneumonia, a productive cough is often present as the body attempts to expel mucus from the lungs, indicating a respiratory infection. Fever is a common response to infection, reflecting the body's immune response, and chills may accompany fever due to the body's attempt to raise its temperature as part of the fight against the infection. These symptoms collectively are more directly associated with pneumonic processes and are classic indicators health professionals look for in diagnosing this type of pneumonia.