Geriatrics I

Catalog description

This graduate-level course is designed to provide physician assistant students with an in-depth understanding of the unique medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic considerations in the care of elderly patients. This course covers essential topics in geriatric medicine, including normal and abnormal aging processes, complex differential diagnoses, preventive medicine, and palliative care. Through a series of modules, students will gain skills in comprehensive patient evaluation, effective management of acute and chronic conditions, and improved communication with geriatric patients and their families. Special attention is given to polypharmacy, patient safety, and evidence-based decision-making, ensuring students are prepared to deliver high-quality care to this growing patient population. Upon completion of the course, students will be equipped to manage the complex and often multifactorial health issues of elderly patients. They will be able to apply evidence-based practices in assessing, diagnosing, and treating geriatric patients, with a strong understanding of patient safety, polypharmacy, preventive medicine, and palliative care. Furthermore, students will be prepared to communicate effectively with elderly patients and their families, ensuring a patient-centered approach to care.