Geriatrics

GERIATRICS

HOW OLD IS ‘OLD’?

System Pathophysiology in the Elderly

OLD ISSUES

QUESTION:What conditions in the

elderly cause incontinence?

ANSWER:That depends…

Altered Mental Status and Confusion

DO NOT assume that a confused, disoriented patient is “just senile”

Pulmonary/RespiratoryDisorders

Pneumonia

Pulmonary EmbolismBlood clots are the most frequent

causeUsually originate in the deep veins

of the thigh and calf Treatment

Oxygen, IVVigorous fluid therapy

should be avoided AnticoagulantsVasopressorsPositioning

Cerebrovascular Disease (Stroke )

Two major categories Brain ischemiaHemmorhagic

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Pressure Ulcers (Decubitus Ulcers)

Highest incidence occurs in nursing homes

Typically develop from the waist down, over bony prominences, in bedridden patients

Prevention

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OsteoporosisRisk FactorsPersons with

osteoporosis are usually asymptomatic until a fracture occurs

Management© Phototake NYC

Geriatric Abuse and Neglect

Transport ConsiderationsTrauma places an

elderly person at increased risk of hypothermia

Orthopedic InjuriesHip or pelvis

fracturesProximal

humerusDistal radiusProximal tibiaThoracic and

lumbar bodies