Module 5 - Peds and Geri

Question 1

What are some anatomical differences between peds and geri patients with their airway?

Answer 1

peds:
- big heads
- floppy tongues
- funnel shaped tracheas
geri:
- brittle teeth
- dentures (obstruction)
- stiff neck (kyphosis)

Question 2

What are some anatomical differences between peds and geri patients with their breathing?

Answer 2

Peds:
- obligate nose breathers until 6 months
- decreased number of alveoli (decreased SA for gas exchange)
- immature intercostal muscles that fatigue easily
Geri:
- increased risk of chronic airway disease
- alveoli atrophy and stiffening of small airways
- decreased ventilation and decreased tidal volume due to decreased chest compliance (stiffening muscles)
- poor mucus clearance

Question 3

What are some anatomical differences between peds and geri patients with their circulation?

Answer 3

Peds:
- immature cardiac muscle; unable to manipulate stroke volume
- immature kidney function; unable to concentration urine, but still pee, increased risk of dehydration
- decreased blood volume compared to circulating volume, therefore any blood loss can have significant impacts on oxygen supply (decreased hemoglobin)
Geri:
- hyptertension is common (inc afterload)
- valves stiffen (stenosis)
- decreased stress response (myocardial response)

Question 4

What are some anatomical differences between peds and geri patients with their disability?

Answer 4

Peds:
- increased metabolic demand
- decreased glycogen stores (immature liver function)
- fontanelles may not be fully closed
- immature blood brain barrier
Geri:
- altered pain response
- decreased responsiveness to insulin
- cerebral atrophy and decreased cerebral perfusion