Miscellaneous Flashcards
What are pressure sores?
Localised areas of tissue damage caused by prolonged pressure or friction, typically occurring over bony prominences - can be superficial to deep tissue injury
RF for pressure sores?
- Immobility and reduced ability to change positions
- Poor nutrition and hydration
- Advanced age
- Chronic illnesses and those which impair healing (e.g. diabetes, peripheral vascular disease)
Sx of pressure sores
- Skin changes - redness to skin ulceration
- Pain or discomfort at affected areas
- Swelling or induration (hardening) of surrounding tissue
- Open sores or wounds
Tx of pressure sores?
- Pressure relief - minimise pressure on affected areas
- Wound care
- Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
- Pain management
What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic, disabling cdtn that significantly impacts productivity.
Sx of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Extreme fatigue
Post-exertional malaise
Sleep disturbances
Cognitive impairment
Ix for chronic fatigue syndrome?
Largely clinical but can do further tests to rule out other cdtns:
* Bloods - Infl., infx
* Thyroid function tests
Mx of chronic fatigue syndrome
- CBT
- Sx control - meds for pain or sleep etc.
What is narcolepsy?
Chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It’s associated with low levels of orexin (hypocretin) a protein which is responsible for controlling appetite and sleep patterns.
Sx of narcolepsy?
- Hypersomnolence (excessive daytime sleepiness)
- Cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone often triggered by emotion)
- Sleep paralysis
- Vivid hallucinations on going to sleep or waking up
Tx of narcolepsy?
- Daytime stimulants (e.g. modafinil)
- Nightime (e.g. sodium oxybate)
What is the screening for malnutrition called?
MUST (Malnutrition Universal Screen Tool)
