Fall in the Elderley

Question 1

Where is a femoral nerve block administered? What effect does this have?

Answer 1

. Local anaesthetic applied along the inguinal ligament, just lateral to where you can feel the femoral pulse (femoral pule= femoral artery, VAN means femoral nerve is just lateral to this)
. Analgesia to anterior thigh and medial part of leg

Question 2

What is alendronate/alendronic acid used for?

Answer 2

. Used to treat osteoporosis
. Binds to bone and prevents calcium from being removed by osteoclasts, which helps keep bones strong in the event of a fall or trauma

Question 3

How should a patient be advised to take alendronic acid?

Answer 3

. Take first thing in the morning before you eat or drink anything other than water
. Must not chew or break tablets, as they can cause damage to the throat
. Must remain sitting upright or standing and not eat or drink anything other than water for 30 mins after taking tablet

Question 4

When taking alendronic acid, what can black or bloody stool indicate?

Answer 4

Can be a sign of an ulcer, so must contact doctor ASAP if this is experienced

Question 5

Where is the most common site of femoral fracture?

Answer 5

Femur is most commonly fractured at the femoral neck, as this is the narrowest and weakest part and is where lots of force is transmitted

Question 6

What is FRAX?

Answer 6

FRAX is a calculator used to calculate the risk of someone having a hip fracture

Question 7

What are the borders of the femoral triangle?

Answer 7

Inguinal ligament, adductor longus, sartorius