Care Of The Elderly Flashcards
1
Q
Name some common medications which can cause people to fall.
A
Diuretics e.g. Furosemide, thiazides Beta blockers Anti-depressants Benzodiazepines Opioids
2
Q
Name some common causes of falls.
A
Infection Muscle weakness Drug-induced Postural hypotension Vision problems Trips and slips
3
Q
What are the 3 types of delirium?
A
Hyperactive
Hypoactive
Mixed
4
Q
What are the most common causes of delirium?
A
Infection Constipation Electrolyte imbalance Drug induced or drug withdrawal Nutritional e.g. B12 deficiency
5
Q
In the rare event that a patient needs to be sedated, what are the 1st and 2nd line drugs?
A
1st line - lorazepam
2nd line - haloperidol
Both are given in the lowest dose and PO where possible to reduce the risk of respiratory depression.
6
Q
List some risk factors for delirium.
A
65 years +
Severe illness
Current hip fracture
Cognitive impairment and/or dementia
