Geriatrics Mar 10 Flashcards
What is geriatrics?
The branch of medicine that focuses on the health care of elderly people.
What are the main objectives when managing geriatric patients?
- Describe the physiology of aging
- Describe differences in history taking from geriatric patients
- Describe reasons geriatric patients are more prone to traumatic injuries
- Describe differences in the management of geriatric patients
What physiological change occurs in the cardiovascular system with aging?
Decreased cardiac output and increased risk of atherosclerosis.
What respiratory changes occur in geriatric patients?
- Decreased baseline oxygen in blood
- Decreased vital capacity
- Increased residual capacity
What is a common risk associated with aging in the central nervous system?
Increased risk for intracranial bleeds.
Fill in the blank: Aging is ______ and occurs at different rates in different cells and organs.
irreversible
What happens to the kidneys with aging?
- Decreased ability to survive massive fluid loss
- Increased risk of drug toxicity due to decreased excretion
True or False: Hormonal levels remain largely unaffected in healthy aging.
True
What are the effects of decreased estrogen in aging women?
- Acceleration of bone demineralization
- Atrophy of sexual characteristics
What are common changes in the integumentary system due to aging?
- Loss of elasticity
- Dry mucous membranes
- Delayed wound healing
What is the difference between delirium and dementia?
- Delirium: not progressive, often reversible, sudden onset
- Dementia: progressive, irreversible loss of intellectual function
What are signs of potential geriatric abuse?
- Frequent EMS calls for falls
- Multiple orthopedic injuries
- Evidence of burns or scars
What factors contribute to depression in the elderly?
- Loneliness
- Feelings of helplessness
- Lack of activity
What is a key consideration when assessing elderly patients?
They often underreport symptoms.
What should be done when taking history from geriatric patients?
- Talk at eye level
- Speak slowly and distinctly
- Use respectful terms
What is a common medication that may be found on a geriatric patient’s list?
- Warfarin
- Metoprolol
- Furosemide
What is the impact of decreased muscle tone in the esophagus and stomach in older adults?
Increased risk for gastrointestinal issues.
What is a common assessment technique for elderly patients?
Direct questioning to focus on present symptoms.
What are the main issues with drug metabolism in elderly patients?
Increased drug toxicity due to slower excretion.
What is the significance of a thorough history in elderly patients?
To differentiate between acute and chronic symptoms.
What psychological factors can complicate the management of geriatric patients?
Confusion and fear.
What is the effect of aging on the musculoskeletal system?
- Loss of minerals in bone
- Decreased skeletal muscle mass
How does aging affect the special senses?
- Decreased sight
- Decreased hearing
- Decreased taste
What should be assessed regarding the living conditions of elderly patients?
General hygiene and availability of life necessities.
