ATLS geriatric care

Question 1

True or false: patients 65 years and older are less likely to be injured

Answer 1

True, but if they are injured they have worse outcome

Question 2

What should be done with dentures when intubating?

Answer 2

If broken, remove. But if well fitted and tight, leave in until airway control is achieved.

Question 3

Why can oxygenation of trauma patients, particularly the elderly, lead to hypercapnia?

Answer 3

Decreases respiratory drive, particularly in the elderly

Question 4

What is important to remember about elderly patients on chronic diuretic therapy?

Answer 4

Chronically contracted vascular volume and serum K deficit–monitor these

Question 5

True or false: the indications for transfusion of elderly patients is the same as for younger patients

Answer 5

True

Question 6

What is true about hypovolemic shock in elderly patients that is not true in younger patients?

Answer 6

Hypovolemia can lead to cardiogenic shock

Question 7

What is the role of acidosis in the elderly?

Answer 7

Major predictor of mortality

Question 8

Hypothermia not attributable to shock or exposure should alert the physician to the possibility of occult disease, like what? (3)

Answer 8

Sepsis
Endocrine disease
pharmacologic causes

Question 9

What are the most common locations for fractures in the elderly?

Answer 9

Ribs
Proximal femur
Hip
Humerus
Wrist