Aging & Older Adults
What is xerostomia and how does it affect elderly patients?
Dry mouth; often due to medications.
What is the most common oral side effect of chemotherapy?
Mucositis
What is the normal platelet count range?
150,000 to 450,000/mm³
What does the “L” in the LEARN model stand for in healthcare communication?
Listen – attentively hear the patient’s perspective without interruption.
What does informed consent include?
Treatment, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
What dental hygiene aid can help someone with arthritis maintain oral hygiene?
Electric toothbrush with large handle.
What is osteoradionecrosis?
Bone death caused by reduced blood flow after radiation therapy.
Which anemia is most common globally?
Iron-deficiency anemia
True or False – Cultural sensitivity means assuming all people from a culture think alike.
False
Why is documentation important in dental hygiene care?
Legal protection and continuity of care.
What condition is presbycusis?
Age-related hearing loss.
When should dental care ideally occur before cancer therapy?
2–4 weeks prior to treatment.
What lab test is used to monitor bleeding risk in patients on warfarin?
INR (International Normalized Ratio)
What is one way to demonstrate cultural competence during a patient history?
Asking open-ended questions about cultural beliefs that affect care.
What federal law protects patient confidentiality?
HIPAA
What oral condition may indicate neglect in an older adult?
Untreated decay, oral infections, or poor denture hygiene.
What fluoride method is ideal for patients post-radiation?
Custom trays with 1.1% sodium fluoride gel.
What oral sign may be seen in pernicious anemia?
Beefy red tongue, burning sensation, or loss of papillae.
Why might a patient avoid eye contact in a healthcare setting?
In some cultures, it is a sign of respect.
What is SOAP charting?
Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan.
Why are older adults at increased risk for root caries?
Gingival recession and reduced salivary flow.
What condition may result from bisphosphonate use in cancer patients?
Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ)
What does leukopenia mean?
Low white blood cell count.
Name a model used to structure culturally sensitive communication.
ETHNIC or LEARN model
What should be done if a patient refuses to give a health history?
Explain the importance; if refusal continues, treatment may be denied for safety.