Module 1 - Differentials and Caring for Older Adults

Question 1

• Differentials

Answer 1

• a test should only be obtained if the result will in some way affect your decision making
• if you do not understand the operating characteristics of a test (ie sensitivity or specificity) do not order it

Question 2

• Screening hearing and sight

Answer 2

USPSTF does not recommend screening for hearing and vision loss in older adults
HOWEVER
hearing
- audiometry is the standard
- whispered voice test at 2 ft
- single question: do you have hearing loss
vision
- snellen chart 20 ft

Question 3

• Shared risk factors for diabetes

Answer 3

risk for:
- dementia
- decline in mobility
- disability
- falls
- urinary incontinence

Question 4

• Shared risk factors for malnutrition

Answer 4

corrleated with:
- depression
- dementia
- function dependence

associated with:
- multiple co morbidities

Question 5

• Medication use in older adults

Answer 5

meds can lead to geriatric syndromes
meds must be considered as source of abrupt change in status
- abrupt change in mental status
- weight loss
- dehydration
- agitation or restlessness
- anorexia
- urinary retention
- decline in functional status
- daytime sleepiness
- falls

• newly added medication is usually the culprit

Question 6

*BEERS

Answer 6

omeprazole
metoclopramide
dipyrone
zosins
tricyclic - amitriptyline
diphenhydramine
benzos
oxybutynin, dicyclomine