Treatments

Question 1

What is the treatment for falls?

Answer 1

Falls classes - balance retraining and core stability - includes techniques about how to get up from the floor
Home hazard assessment and intervention - i.e. is the walking stick the correct height
Vision assessment and referral
Medication review with modification/withdrawal

Question 2

How do you treat delirium?

Answer 2

Reassurance and re-orientation in a calm environment
Withdrawal of stressors
Increased nursing observation
Encourage independence and mobility
Ensure appropriate documentation
Encourage oral food and fluid intake
Regular laxatives if constipated
Analgesia (non-opioid) if pain
Manage precipitating factors i.e. dehydration, infection

Question 3

What is the last line treatment for delirium?

Answer 3

Sedatives
Low dose for a week or less - titrated cautiously to effect
IM Haloperidol or Olanzapine - not in someone with Parkinson’s Disease (use Lorazepam instead)

Question 4

What are the side effects of Levodopa?

Answer 4

Postural hypotension
Involuntary movements
Nausea and vomiting
Changes to mood and behaviour

Question 5

What are the risks of thrombolysis in acute stroke?

Answer 5

6% risk of haemorrhage

7% risk of angioedema