Geriatrics Week 4

Cardiovascular system

The transport system of the body. It comprises Heart, Blood & Blood Vessels. The system supplies Nutrients and remove waste products from various tissue of the body. There are so many changes occurs in cardiovascular system during Aging.

Hypertension

occurs in one half to two thirds of people older than 65 years of age, and heart failure (HF) is the most frequent hospital discharge diagnosis

Systolic hypertension

becomes a stronger predictor of cardiovascular events, especially in women

Hypertension

Ischemic Heart Failure

Stroke Attack

Common heart problems

Hypertension

Definition: A condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated, often defined as 130/80 mmHg or higher.

Causes: Age-related stiffening of arteries, obesity, high salt intake, stress, sedentary lifestyle, and genetics

Ischemic Heart Disease

Definition: A condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart due to narrowed coronary arteries, leading to chest pain or heart attack.

Causes: Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes

Stroke

Definition: A condition where the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to brain tissue damage. Can be ischemic (blockage) or hemorrhagic (bleeding).

Causes: Hypertension, atherosclerosis, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, and smoking.

hematologic system

The __________ plays crucial roles in the body, including the transportation of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products; regulation of body temperature, pH, and fluid balance; and protection against infections through white blood cells and antibodies. It also facilitates blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding, maintains acid-base balance, and stores essential nutrients like iron. Overall, the hematologic system is vital for homeostasis and supports various bodily functions.

Anemia

This condition is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.

Nutritional deficiencies

Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate due to inadequate dietary intake or absorption issues.

Chronic Diseases

Conditions such as chronic kidney disease, cancer, or inflammatory disorders can affect red blood cell production.

bone marrow

Age-related changes in _________ function can lead to decreased production of blood cells

leukemia

particularly chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), can occur in older adults and is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal white blood cells.

lymphatic system

essential for maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and facilitating nutrient and waste transport.

Lymphedema

Swelling, usually in the arms or legs, due to poor lymph fluid drainage. It's common after surgeries or infections that affect the lymphatic system.

Pneumonia

Lung infection causing inflammation and fluid accumulation, leading to cough and difficulty breathing.

Cellulitis

Definition: due to weakened immune responses and slower healing.

Description: Bacterial skin infection resulting in redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area.

Bulk-forming additives such as bran, methylcellulose, psyllium
Mild laxatives (apple or prune juice)
Stool softeners (docusate calcium, docusate sodium)
Potent laxatives or cathartics (senna, bisacodyl, cascara sagrada)
Medicated suppositories (glycerin, bisacodyl)
Enema (tap water, saline, sodium phosphate/biphosphate)

Hierarchy of laxatives

constipation

is a problem with passing stool due to poor diet, lack of adequate fluids in diet, lack of exercise, the use of certain drugs to treat other medical conditions, and poor bowel habits.

3 days

If there is an absence of bowel movement within ____, start with mild laxatives to attempt to reattain the normal bowel pattern

2500ml/day

Educate the patient about the connection between fluid intake and constipation. Encourage fluid intake (____) unless contraindicated

cereals

For patients with low tolerance to raw foods, encourage intake of bran via _____, bread, and muffin.

bulk

Having a roughage (raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fruits with skin) in the diet adds ____ to the stool, therefore, minimizes episodes of constipation.