Cancer & Elders (W3)

Question 1

What are chemotherapy drugs considered

Answer 1

Cytotoxic

Question 2

What does the term cytotoxic mean

Answer 2

Refers to chemicals and medications that are toxic to cells

Question 3

A pt’s blood/vomit/feces/urine are considered cytotoxic if they are take chemotherapy drugs (T/F)

Answer 3

True

Question 4

What are some physical differences in regards to elderly pts

Answer 4

-odd drug distribution
-metabolism is decreased
-excretion is decreased
-sensitivity [to drugs] is altered and often increased

Question 5

What are some common issues that present as people age (in regards to the CVS)

Answer 5

-loss of elasticity of large arteries
-increased peripheral vascular resistance
-HTN = left ventricular hypertrophy as a compensatory mechanism
->will likely have trouble maintaining CO w increased HR

Question 6

What are some common issues that present as people age (in regards to the respiratory system)

Answer 6

-loss of lung elasticity
-decreased chest wall compliance
-air trapping

Question 7

What do the changes to the respiratory system leave the elderly extremely susceptible to

Answer 7

Pneumonia

Question 8

What are some common issues that present as people age (skin)

Answer 8

-reduced cell replacement and repair
-reduced SC fat amount (can’t thermoregulate quite as well)

Question 9

What are some common issues that present as people age (in the GI system)

Answer 9

-loss of teeth/trouble chewing = increased incidence of FBAO
-higher incidence of narcotic constipation
-if pt has a hx of atrial fibrillation they are higher risk of mesenteric infarct and bowel obstruction

Question 10

What are some common issues that present as people age (in the endocrine system)

Answer 10

-decreased in hepatic BF = decreased ability to eliminate some drugs
-metabolic changes
-poor nutrition/calorie intake

Question 11

What are some common issues that present as people age (in regards to thermoregulation)

Answer 11

-more susceptible to environmental temperatures
-diaphoresis occurs at higher core temps
-ANS response is slower/diminished causing a decrease in systemic shivering

Question 12

What are some common issues that present as people age (in the genitourinary system)

Answer 12

-less functioning nephrons
-possible increase in waste products in the blood
-GFR decreases by 50% by the age of 90
-incomplete emptying of the bladder = more falls & UTIs

Question 13

What are some common issues that present as people age (in the MSK system)

Answer 13

-osteoporosis (less calcium)
-loss of height (as much as 2-3 inches)
-kyphosis
-decreased muscle mass