Question

Assessments of the geriatric population are challenging due to communication issues, hearing and visual deficits, and complicated medical history. What other factors can alter the EMT's assessment findings?

Answer 1

Assessments of the geriatric population can be challenging for EMTs due to various factors. These include multiple chronic conditions, polypharmacy, cognitive impairment, and functional limitations.

Step-by-step explanation:

In addition to communication issues, hearing and visual deficits, and complicated medical history, there are several other factors that can alter an EMT's assessment findings in the geriatric population. These factors include:

• Multiple chronic conditions: Older adults often have multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. These conditions can interact with each other and affect the overall assessment findings.
• Polypharmacy: Many older adults take several medications simultaneously, which can lead to drug interactions and side effects that can alter assessment findings.
• Cognitive impairment: Dementia and other cognitive impairments can make it challenging for the geriatric population to provide accurate information and cooperate during the assessment process.
• Functional limitations: Age-related physical changes and disabilities, such as decreased mobility and frailty, can impact assessment findings and limit the ability to perform certain tests and maneuvers.