Hip Fracture

The patient is a 71-year-old widowed man who is seen regularly in the clinic for health maintenance and follow-up of his chronic insomnia and anxiety. He has regular prescriptions for triazolam (Halcion) and clonazepam (Klonopin) for these problems. Recently he has been reporting frequent episodes of losing his balance and falling, and eight weeks ago was hospitalized for a hip fracture sustained during one of these falls resulting in hip surgery. On this visit, he also complains of becoming increasingly confused.
• What information would be most critical for you to collect in the first visit?
o Comprehensive assessment, OLD CARTs, Psychiatric and psychosocial history- past diagnosis’s, who he lives with
o Fall history
o h/o family dementia or Alzheimer’s
o hydration status, UTI?
o Medication review
o Sleep asst
o Functional and cognitive status with screening tools
o ADL for function- bathing, toileting, eating
• What is the primary goal for the treatment of this patient?
o Safety
 Sleep, sedation, ambulating, and ADLS- can these be done?

• Identify potential obstacles for change. Which educational approach would the PMHNP provide to overcome these obstacles?
• How would you teach the patient about the Beers list and Halcion?
• Discuss a medication in detail that could be safely substituted to treat insomnia in geriatric patients.
o Melatonin- paired with a consistent slee, wake schedule, reduced day time naps, light therapy
o Evaluate for depression and anxiety that could impact sleep patterns
o Avoid: benzodiazepines, anticholinergics like Benadryl or other antihistamines
o Avoid zolpidem, temazepam, and other like drugs due to sedating factor and reduced kidney clearance in elderly

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Sample Answer

 

 

 

 

This 71-year-old widowed male patient presents a complex clinical picture, highlighting the challenges of managing chronic conditions like insomnia and anxiety in older adults, especially when compounded by polypharmacy and adverse drug events. As an advanced practice registered nurse, particularly a PMHNP, a comprehensive and patient-centered approach is critical.

 

1. Critical Information to Collect in the First Visit:

 

In the initial visit, the most critical information to collect would be aimed at rapidly identifying reversible causes of his acute symptoms (confusion, falls) and comprehensively assessing the long-term contributors.

  • Comprehensive Clinical Assessment (Focused on New Symptoms):
    • Neurological Assessment: Mental status examination (orientation, attention, memory), cranial nerves, motor and sensory function, gait and balance assessment (Romberg test, tandem gait, “Timed Up and Go” test). Assess for signs of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Full Answer Section

 

 

 

 

 

    • Cardiovascular Assessment: Orthostatic vital signs, heart rate and rhythm, presence of murmurs, signs of heart failure (edema, crackles) that could contribute to dizziness or falls.
    • Musculoskeletal Assessment: Assess range of motion, muscle strength, pain, and stability, particularly around the hip post-surgery.
    • Sensory Assessment: Visual and auditory acuity (impaired senses contribute to falls and confusion).
  • OLD CARTs for ALL Symptoms:
    • Falls: Onset, Location (where he falls), Duration, Characteristics (loss of consciousness? dizziness beforehand? tripping?), Aggravating factors (e.g., in the dark, rushing), Relieving factors, Timing (time of day, relation to medication doses). Number of falls in the last year. Fear of falling.
    • Confusion: Onset (acute vs. gradual), Characteristics (fluctuating? worse at certain times?), Associated symptoms (fever, headache), Impact on daily activities.
    • Insomnia & Anxiety: Revisit OLD CARTs for these chronic issues to understand their current presentation, severity, and triggers.
  • Psychiatric and Psychosocial History:
    • Past Diagnoses: Clarify specific diagnoses for insomnia and anxiety, dates of diagnosis, and any other mental health conditions (e.g., depression, PTSD).
    • Treatment History: Review all past treatments (pharmacological, psychotherapy, complementary therapies), their efficacy, and side effects.
    • Social Support: Who he lives with (widowed, lives alone?), availability of family/friends, caregivers. Assess for social isolation, which can exacerbate confusion and anxiety.
    • Coping Mechanisms: How he has managed stress and sleeplessness in the past.
  • Fall History (Detailed): Beyond OLD CARTs, specifically inquire about previous falls before the hip fracture, nature of injuries, and any interventions tried. Assess home environment for fall hazards (rugs, lighting, stairs).

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