MFE Flashcards
Name the five parts of the geriatric assessment
- Medical
- Psychological
- Functional
- Social/environmental
- Spiritual
How might an MI present in older people?
Collapse Delirium Dizziness SOB Autonomic dysfunction
How might sepsis present in an older person?
Early BP drop with no tachycardia, low temperature (gram neg), CRP and WCC may not be raised.
Define delirium
Acute deterioration in mental functioning arising over hours/days triggered by acute illness, surgery or trauma
What is the key neurotransmitter in delirium?
ACh
Name the risk factors for delirium
Elderly Cognitive impairment Post-operative Sensory impairment Previous history Drugs/alcohol Depression Polypharmacy
What are the causes of delirium
Drugs Electrolytes Lack of drugs - withdrawal Infection Reduced sensory output Intracranial Urinary retention Metabolic
State the key features of delirium
Acute onset Fluctuating Altered conscious Inattention/decreased awareness Disorganised thinking
Name two types of delirium
Hyperactive
Hypoactive
What drugs can be used in delirium?
Haloperidol
Lorazepam
When must haloperidol not be used?
Parkinsons’/Lewy Body Dementia
What intrinsic factors predispose to falls?
Medical conditions (diabetes, OA, parkinsons, stroke, incontinence)
Cognition
Impaired vision/hearing
Age related changes
What extrinsic factors predispose to falls?
Medications
Environmental
Lighting
Walking aids/footwear
What antihypertensives increase risk of falls?
Alpha blockers
Nitrates
CCB
What can cause peripheral neuropathy?
Diabetes
Alcohol
Vitamin B12
