Older Adults Flashcards
Delirium definition
Sudden state of rapid changes in brain function reflected in confusion, changes in cognition, activity and LOC
ABRUPT ONSET
Usually reversible
Dementia definition
A slowly developing impairment of intellectual or cognitive function that is progressive and interferes with normal functioning.
INSIDIOUS ONSET
Progressive and irreversible
Causes of delirium
Drugs- anticholinergics, antipsychotics, opioids, benzo’s
Electrolyte disturbance, low PO2, withdrawal from meds, metabolic/myocardial problems.
UTI, CAP MOST COMMON
Treatment of mild-moderate Alzheimer’s
Cholinesterase inhibitors= donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon)
These block acetylcholine breakdown. Have minor time-limited benefit by increasing the availability of acetylcholine.
Treatment of moderate-severe Alzheimer’s
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist= memantine (Namenda)
Preserves the neuron
This helps create an environment that allows for storage and retrieval of information through its affect on glutamate.
Anticholinergic adverse effects in the elderly
Dry mouth/skin, blurred vision, urinary retention, sedation, agitation, tachycardia.
Peripheral artery disease PAD presentation, tx
Leg pain/numbness during activity, persistent infections or sores on legs/feet, pale or blue color to skin. Risk factor-SMOKING
tx- anti platelets (Asa), control BP, wt loss, smoking cessation.
Venous insufficiency presentation, Tx
Burning, swelling, throbbing, cramping, aching, heaviness in legs, RLS, leg fatigue, telangiectasis
Tx- physical activity, compression stockings, sclerotherapy or ablation.
Peripheral neuropathy presentation, Tx
Insidious onset, numbness/tingling of hands/feet, burning pain, electric-like pain, muscle weakness, sensitivity to touch.
Tx- NSAIDS, anti-seizure meds (Neurontin), antidepressants, lidocaine patches
