Final answer:
Infections, trauma, and congenital disorders can affect an older patient's baseline LOC and neurologic status. A neurological exam can help determine the specific areas of the nervous system that are affected and guide treatment decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In older patients, changes in their baseline level of consciousness (LOC) and neurologic status can be caused by various factors such as infections, trauma, and congenital disorders. For example, a stroke can cause a loss of oxygen to a specific part of the central nervous system and lead to changes in neurologic function. A neurologist can assess the patient's neurologic status through a neurological exam which includes tasks to test reflexes, sensory responses, and motor control. This exam can help determine which areas of the nervous system may be affected and guide treatment decisions.