Geriatrics Flashcards
0
Q
Delusions
A
May be part of psychotic depression
1
Q
Underestimated if symptoms misattributed to
A
Physical disorders
Normal aging
Cognitive impairment
Lack of age appropriate diagnostic criteria
2
Q
Delirium
A
Acute onset
Can be from illness, meds or sensory deprivation
Behaviors may fluctuate Psychomotor change Change in loc Disorientation Short attention span May be mistaken for dementia so they may be mis treated
3
Q
Components of geriatric assessment
A
Interviewing MSE behavior response Functional abilities (ADLs, risk for falls, mobility) Neuroimaging Labs Psychological functioning (nutrition, substance abuse) Social support Sleep patterns Nutrition intake Relocation of stress Caregiver strain Social isolation
4
Q
Causes of depression
A
Physics illnesses (depression is secondary)
- thyroid disorders
- cancer
- Parkinson’s disease, stroke, dementia
- vascular depression from vascular brain lesions
Meds
5
Q
Substance abuse
A
Alcoholism
Prescription drugs
6
Q
Failure to thrive syndrome
A
- weight loss, poor nutrition, decreased appetite, inactivity, dehydration
7
Q
Suicide risk
A
Recent death Physical illness, uncontrollable pain, fear of prolonged illness Perceived poor health Poor prognosis Social isolation Major change in social roles
8
Q
Somatization
A
Sign of pts sense of deterioration
Decreased self worth
…
9
Q
Treatment for depression
A
Antidepressant meds, start slow, high risk of side effects ECT CBT Reminiscence therapy Brief psychodynamic therapy
10
Q
Medication side
A
Slow metabolism of drugs "Start low and go slow" low dose and one at a time Vulnerable to: Sedation Orthostatic hypotension (falls) Agitation EPS
Usually handle newer drugs better because they target neurotransmitters better
