misc

Question 1

list six interventions which can be initiated in the emergency
department to reduce the likelihood of a patient developing delirium

Answer 1

Ensure a calm, quiet environment (reduce noise and overstimulation)
- Provide orientation cues (e.g., clock, familiar objects)
- Maintain hydration with IV fluids if needed and regular meals
- Avoid unnecessary medications (e.g., sedatives like benzodiazepines)
- Encourage family presence for reassurance
- Regularly assess and manage pain effectively

Question 2

List four (4) patient factors that affect healing in elderly patients.

Answer 2

• co-morbidities (DM, PVD)
• impaired immune response
• reduced skin elasticity and collagen production
• poor nutritional status (protein def)

Question 3

List two (2) benefits of a well-documented Advance Care Directive/Plan.

Answer 3

• Ensures patient’s wishes are respected regarding treatment preferences.
• Reduces decision-making burden on family or healthcare providers.

Question 4

List six (6) non-pharmacological supportive measures to ensure excellent end-of-life care.

Answer 4

environment: private, comfortable
patient care: removal of monitoring or avoiding interventions. personal dignity (toileting care), gentle repositioning for pressure injuries
psychosocial: cultural and religious support
MDT input and approach
family: facilitate presence and involvement

Question 5

List four (4) criteria that identify a patient as a potential organ donor.

Answer 5

• No maximum age, must be > 16y
• GCS less than or equal to 5
• Intubated / Ventilated
• Receiving end-of-life care
• Condition likely to cause irreversible cessation of all brain function (brain death)
• Condition likely to cause irreversible cessation of the circulation of blood in the body
  (circulatory death)
• Prior expressed wishes OR presence on organ donor registry