Lifespan Considerations: Older Adults

Older Adult Considerations

• Older adults may experience depression and feel like a burden post-incident (e.g., stroke, hip fracture).
• Encouragement, kindness, and family support are vital to restoring their self-worth.
• Consulting social services can provide financial assistance and additional resources.

Types of Immobilization

Splints

• Splints immobilize an injured body part, serving as first aid before a cast or traction.
• Types of splints include:
  • Molded splints: Maintain functional position to prevent contracture.
  • Immobilizers: Cloth and foam with Velcro, commonly used on knees.
  • Inflatable splints: Control bleeding while immobilizing; inflate to 1.5 inches of fingertip indentation.
  • Cervical collars: Support neck injuries.
  • Traction splints: Used for fractures, requiring traction ropes and weights.

Application of a Splint

• Handle the injured area gently to reduce nerve injury and bleeding.
• Cover wounds with clean material to prevent infection.
• Use rigid materials such as flat boards or broom handles to immobilize the injury.
• Ensure splint extends above and below the injury.
• Pad bony areas to prevent pressure sores.
• Secure the splint firmly and elevate injured parts to reduce swelling.

Traction

• Traction uses pulling forces to maintain body parts in extension and alignment; aids realignment and pain relief.
• Types of traction include:
  • Manual: Physical pulling by caregivers.
  • Skin: Adhesive traction via skin.
  • Skeletal: Weights applied directly to bones.
• Initial heavier weights may be needed to overcome muscle tension, reducing over time as muscles relax.
• The bed should be raised no more than 20 degrees to prevent slippage.

Principles of Traction

• Ensure ropes and weights are free of friction and entanglements.
• Continuous traction is necessary as ordered; do not interrupt during care.
• Evaluate assistive devices for structural integrity and proper function.
• Assess the patient’s ability to use assistive devices safely.

Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Machine

• Commonly employed after knee surgery; requires careful setup per surgeon's order.
• Steps for use include:
  • Checking order limits for flexion/extension and speed.
  • Connecting and centering the machine appropriately on the bed.
  • Ensuring the dressing is intact before use to prevent injury.
  • Observing function during operation and adjusting as necessary.

Elastic Bandage Application

• Used for immobilization, pressure application, and wound support.
• Different bandaging techniques vary based on body part, including:
  • Circular turn: Anchors bandage, suitable for fingers/wrists.
  • Spiral turn: For uniform parts like arms or legs.
  • Figure-of-eight turn: Stabilizes joints like elbows or knees.
  • Recurrent turn: Covers distal parts; used for stumps or fingers.

Bandaging Technique

• Wash and dry the area before applying a bandage to prevent infections.
• Elevate the extremity to promote venous return and reduce swelling.
• Secure the bandage with circular turns to prevent loosening.
• Ensure even application with light to moderate tension to avoid pressure points.
• Check fit and circulation regularly to prevent complications from tight bandaging.

This quiz addresses the emotional and psychological challenges faced by older adults following debilitating conditions like strokes and hip fractures. It highlights the importance of support from caregivers and family in promoting recovery and improving the quality of life. Understanding these considerations can help improve interactions and care strategies.