Geriatric Medicine (Medicine of Older Adult) Flashcards
What is the ‘single-disease model’?
This is where diseases are treated as isolated entities, without considering the interplay with other diseases, comorbidities, or broader systemic factors. This model often underpins disease-specific guidelines, interventions, and clinical trials.
Mrs D, age 71, COPD. 4 acute admissions over last year for exacerbations. You are the F1 sending her home. What are you going to consider? How might you help reduce re-admissions?
> Stop smoking!
Ensure that she has the correct inhalers and is using them correctly.
Provide pulmonary rehabilitation if needed.
Provide rescue packs and information.
Involve community COPD nurses.
Does she have enough support at home— consider the need for domiciliary care.
Roger, aged 71, came in feeling tired, and on further questioning, noticed reduced appetite but drinking plenty….
Bloods: HBA1C 110, HDL/chol ratio 6.5, BP 156/95, BMI 29
> Glycemic Control: Roger’s HbA1c of 110 mmol/mol (12.2%) indicates poorly controlled diabetes. Initiate or adjust diabetes medications, considering insulin therapy if not already on it.
> Lifestyle Modifications: Emphasize dietary changes, physical activity, and weight management. Referral to a dietitian can be beneficial.
Cardiovascular Risk Management:
> Hypertension: His BP of 156/95 mmHg requires antihypertensive treatment. Consider ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which are beneficial for patients with diabetes.
