A Geri-EM E-Learning Module
The management of trauma is one of the core competencies of the Emergency Physician. Trauma in the older patient has all of the complexity of trauma management in the younger patient. Penetrating trauma is rare in older patients. But blunt trauma is a major and frequent reason for older patients to present to the ED. We have devoted a complete module to the topic of “Major Trauma” in older patients. This module will focus on the most common cause of trauma in older patients – ground-level falls.
Older people who have fallen need evaluation in several modalities. A thorough ED assessment of a patient who has fallen – taking into account the changes of normal aging, medication, medical illness, as well as home environment — can have a profound effect on that person’s well-being and future function.
We will explore an approach to management of the routine patient who has fallen, and what constitutes an adequate ED work-up of the first-time or frequent faller.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, ED care providers will be able to:
- Explain how the aging process increases fall risk.
- Describe an approach to a patient who has fallen, identifying potential causes of falls (identified by history, physical examination, and functional assessment).
- Describe management of injuries, coordination of a discharge plan, and prevention of future falls.
- Describe the importance of an interdisciplinary team in assessing older patients with falls.
- Communicate the key components of a safe discharge plan for older patients who have fallen.
- Keep a broad differential diagnosis for vague symptoms, especially in the older population.
Attendance at this course does not indicate nor guarantee competence or proficiency in the performance of any procedures which may be discussed or taught in this course.
Course Details
Release Date: 06/01/2022
Expiration Date: 12/31/2027
Continuing Education Credits
AMA
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
ANCC
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science designates this activity for a maximum of 1.00 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.