Aging Adult Population Vascular Changes

A general deterioration of the circulatory system due to the natural aging process and damage caused by various chronic ailments like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney issues. This can lead to narrowed arteries and decreased blood flow.

An increase in the number of white blood cells in the bloodstream, often indicating an infection or other health problem. This rise can be attributed to various factors such as infections, trauma, or certain types of cancer.

A test used to measure the filtering capacity of the kidneys. It determines how much blood is filtered by the glomeruli, the tiny filters inside the kidneys, each minute.

A chronic condition that affects primarily arterial circulation and can contribute to the overall aging process. It involves a persistent elevation of blood pressure, putting strain on the cardiovascular system.

A metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels due to either insufficient insulin production or the inability of the body to effectively use insulin. Chronic diabetes can significantly damage the blood vessels, impacting circulation.

A condition where the kidneys are not functioning properly, leading to an accumulation of waste products in the blood. Chronic kidney disease can also negatively impact the circulatory system due to the buildup of toxins.

A group of factors influencing an individual's circulatory system and general well-being. These include lifestyle choices such as diet, stress management, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, and substance abuse.

Factors contributing to skin changes associated with aging. These include the loss of collagen, reduced hormone levels, dehydration, and environmental exposure like smoking.

A formula used to estimate the GFR, considering factors such as creatinine levels, age, gender, and ethnicity. It provides an indication of kidney function and can help identify potential issues.

A condition where there is a higher than normal level of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream, potentially contributing to various health problems. This can affect the circulatory system by impacting heart rate and blood pressure.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is diagnosed when your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for at least 3 months, regardless of the cause.

Serum creatinine is a waste product produced during muscle metabolism. It's a good indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels suggest impaired kidney function.

A GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for 3 months or more means CKD is present. This indicates a need for vascular access planning, especially if hemodialysis may be necessary.

Platelets are small blood cells that help to stop bleeding. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can complicate vascular access placement.

INR measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It's used to monitor patients taking blood thinners.

A Comprehensive Vascular Access Plan involves assessing the patient's vascular system to determine the best and safest way to provide dialysis access.

When assessing a patient for vascular access, it's important to consider their overall health, including their platelet count, INR, and any other relevant factors.

A hemodialysis fistula is a connection between an artery and a vein in the arm that can be used for dialysis. It's the preferred access for long-term hemodialysis.

A PICC is a central venous catheter that is inserted into a vein in the arm and threaded into a larger vein in the chest. It can be used for long-term access for medications and fluids.

In patients who are at risk of bleeding, a PICC may be a better choice for vascular access than a traditional dialysis fistula or graft. Patients with a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) might be more prone to bleeding, so a PICC might be chosen due to its placement in a central vein where compression is possible.

A condition where the kidneys are not working properly, causing a buildup of waste in the blood.

A formula that estimates the glomerular filtration rate considering factors like creatinine levels, age, gender, and ethnicity.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is diagnosed when the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 months, regardless of the cause.

A GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for 3 months or more means CKD is present. This indicates a need for vascular access planning, especially if hemodialysis may be necessary.

Platelets are small blood cells that help to stop bleeding. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can complicate vascular access placement.

INR measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It's used to monitor patients taking blood thinners.