FMCLA Geriatric Care and Elder Medicine

Question 1

Which validated tool is most commonly used to screen for cognitive impairment in a primary care setting?

Accepted Answer

Mini-Cog

Answer

The Mini-Cog combines a 3-item recall and clock-drawing test, providing a brief and validated dementia screening tool.

Question 2

A 78-year-old male presents with acute confusion, fluctuating consciousness, and inattention. This presentation is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Delirium

Answer

Delirium is characterized by acute onset, fluctuating course, and inattention, distinguishing it from chronic progressive dementia.

Question 3

Which medication class is most associated with fall risk in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines cause sedation, impaired balance, and psychomotor slowing, making them a major fall risk in older adults.

Question 4

According to the Beers Criteria, which analgesic should be avoided in elderly patients due to risk of GI bleeding and renal impairment?

Accepted Answer

NSAIDs

Answer

NSAIDs are explicitly listed in the Beers Criteria as high-risk medications in older adults due to GI, renal, and cardiovascular adverse effects.

Question 5

Which functional assessment tool evaluates basic activities of daily living (ADLs) in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Katz Index

Answer

The Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living assesses bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding.

FMCLA - Family Medicine Certification Longitudinal Assessment Practice Test