Geriatric Conditions
Condition commonly found in elderly pts characterized by progressive decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, thinking, & behavior.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
These meds are used to control high BP but can cause dizziness & fainting.
What are antihypertensive medications?
A practice in geriatric nursing to prevent falls in elderly pts, involving assessing environment & physical abilities.
What is fall risk assessment?
This test helps assess cognitive function & is particularly useful for identifying early dementia.
What is the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?
As people age, this physiological process slows down, making it difficult for elderly to metabolize meds
What is renal function or renal clearance?
Condition is a result of the thinning of the bones, making them fragile, likely to fx
What is osteoporosis?
Class of meds can be used to manage depression in older adults, may increase risk of falls d/t sedation
What are antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs)
It's important to assess their ability to perform these basic tasks, which are critical for independent living
What are activities of daily living (ADLs)?
Type of assessment is used to screen older adults for signs of depression.
What is the Geriatric Depression Scale?
common visual impairments in older, leading to difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.
What is macular degeneration?
Common geriatric disorder w/ stiffness, pain, & swelling in the joints, particularly knees, hips, & hands
What is osteoarthritis
OTC supplements commonly used by geriatrics to promote bone health & may help prevent fx.
What are calcium and vitamin D?
Nursing intervention involves checking the pt’s skin for pressure ulcers, especially in immobile pts.
What is skin assessment or pressure ulcer prevention?
Type of in-depth evaluation of an elderly pt focuses on physical, mental, & functional abilities to create holistic care plans.
What is a comprehensive geriatric assessment?
Age-related change in the skin leads to increased fragility, decreased elasticity, & a higher risk for skin tears & bruising.
What is thinning skin or skin atrophy?
Term refers to a decrease in ability to perform ADLs, often due to illness or aging
What is functional decline?
A common S/E of many sedative meds, this condition involves confusion, agitation, & hallucinations.
What is delirium?
Type of care emphasizes relieving symptoms & improving the quality of life, rather than curing the dx.
What is palliative care?
Change in M/S system often leads to decreased bone density & joint mobility, contributing to frailty in older pts
What is sarcopenia or muscle loss?
This type of care emphasizes comfort at the end of life, for those who have 6 months or < to live
what is hospice?