35. Geriatric Emergencies Flashcards
a rapidly fatal condition in which the walls of the aorta in the abdomen weaken and blood leaks into the layers of the vessel, causing it to bulge
abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)
written documentation that specifies medical treatment for a competent patient should the patient become
advance directive
an abnormal enlargement of a part of an artery, resulting from weakening of the arterial wall
aneurysm
a disease that causes the arteries to thicken, harden, and calcify
arteriosclerosis
fluid in the abdomen
ascites
an accumulation of fat and cholesterol in the arteries
atherosclerosis
clouding of the lens of the eye or its surrounding transparent membranes
cataracts
sores caused by the pressure of skin against a surface for long periods; can range from a pink discoloration of the skin to a deep wound that may invade into bone or organs; also known as bedsores
decubitus ulcers
the formation of a blood clot within the larger veins of an extremity, typically following a period of prolonged immobilization
deep vein thrombosis
a sudden change in mental status marked by the inability to focus, think logically, and maintain attention; this condition is generally acute and reversible
delirium
the slow onset of progressive disorientation, shortened attention span, and loss of cognitive function; this condition is generally chronic and irreversible
dementia
shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
dypsnea
any action on the part of an older person’s family member, caregiver, or other associated person that takes advantage of the older person’s person, property, or emotional state
elder abuse
the assessment and treatment of disease in someone who is 65 years or older
geriatrics
the coughing u of blood
hemoptysis
