Neurology (Part 1): Small Animal Exam, Cranial Nerves, and Seizure Management

What is the primary purpose of a neurological exam?

To assess the neurological status of an animal in a quiet environment.

What should be assessed during the observation phase of a neurological exam?

Attitude/mentation, posture, gait, symmetry, muscle atrophy, and worn nails.

What is mentation in the context of a neurological exam?

The level of consciousness of the patient.

What does ataxia refer to?

Uncoordinated muscle movements while walking, often described as 'drunk walking'.

What is the difference between paresis and plegia?

Paresis refers to weakness, while plegia refers to paralysis.

What is the function of the olfactory cranial nerve (CN I)?

Sense of smell.

What are the clinical signs of hydrocephalus?

Seizures, dullness, blindness, pacing, and head pressing.

What is the pathophysiology of hydrocephalus?

Accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around/within the brain.

What is the grading scale for reflex responses?

0: Absent, 1: Hyporeflexia, 2: Normal, 3: Hyperreflexia, 4: Clonus.

What is status epilepticus?

Continuous seizure activity lasting more than 5-10 minutes or recurring seizures without regaining consciousness.

What are the stages of a seizure?

Prodromal (Aura), Ictus, Post-Ictus.

What is the primary treatment for seizures in animals?

Antiepileptic medications such as Diazepam, Phenobarbital, and Levetiracetam.

What is the role of the vagus cranial nerve (CN X)?

Motor function for throat/mouth and parasympathetic control to the heart and viscera.

What is the purpose of the placing test in a neurological exam?

To assess the patient's ability to lift paws to place them on a surface.

What are common clinical signs of encephalitis?

Neck pain, fever, hyperesthesia, seizures, ataxia.

What is the function of the facial cranial nerve (CN VII)?

Facial expressions, palpebral reflex, taste, and production of tears/saliva.

What is the significance of the conscious proprioception test?

It assesses the animal's awareness of body position and movement.

What are the key nursing considerations for administering Phenobarbital?

Requires blood level monitoring and is used for chronic seizure management.

What does kyphosis refer to?

A humped or arched back posture.

What is the primary medical treatment for hydrocephalus?

Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and diuretics to decrease CSF volume.

What is the role of the trigeminal cranial nerve (CN V)?

Sensory to the face and motor for chewing/jaw tone.

What is the function of the vestibulocochlear cranial nerve (CN VIII)?

Hearing and balance.

What is the difference between generalized and focal seizures?

Generalized seizures involve both brain hemispheres, while focal seizures originate in a specific brain area.

What is the purpose of the extensor postural thrust test?

To assess the animal's ability to take steps backward when supported under the front limbs.

What is the key nursing care for a patient experiencing seizures?

Protect the patient from self-injury and monitor vital signs.

What are the types of hydrocephalus?

Congenital and acquired.

What is the clinical significance of nystagmus?

It indicates vestibular dysfunction or neurological issues.