Delirium, Dementia & Related Diseases

Flashcards on key terms related to Delirium, Dementia, and other related diseases.

Delirium

A reversible condition of rapid onset characterized by behavioral and emotional changes.

Dementia

A progressive impairment of intellectual function, affecting memory and cognitive skills.

Alzheimer's Disease

The most common cause of dementia, characterized by brain atrophy and cognitive decline.

Multiinfarct Dementia

A type of vascular dementia caused by interruptions of blood flow to the brain, leading to multiple strokes.

Physiologic Changes with Aging

Decreased number of brain cells, nerve fibers, neuroreceptors, and coordination.

Symptoms of Delirium

Include behavioral changes, emotional changes, restlessness, agitation, or withdrawal.

Aphasia

Inability to understand or express language.

Agnosia

Inability to recognize familiar objects.

Apraxia

Problems with manipulation and executing voluntary movements.

Agraphia

Difficulty in writing and drawing.

Progressive Stages of Alzheimer's Dementia

Early, middle, and terminal stages of cognitive decline.

Senile Plaques

Aggregates of proteins that disrupt communication between brain cells in Alzheimer's.

Neurofibrillary Tangles

Twisted strands of protein that disrupt cellular function in Alzheimer's.

Reality Orientation

An intervention to help dementia patients by providing familiar stimuli.

Delirium Characteristics

Sudden onset, may fluctuate during the day, reversible.

Dementia Characteristics

Insidious onset, persistent cognitive decline, non-reversible.

Depression Characteristics

Can be sudden or insidious, but mood is primarily sad and hopeless.

Risk Factors for Multiinfarct Dementia

Include arteriosclerosis, hypertension, cardiac issues, diabetes, and smoking.

Signs & Symptoms of TIA

Transient visual changes, headache, disorientation, and motor deficits.

Stroke

A cerebrovascular accident that can be ischemic or hemorrhagic, affecting brain function.

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

Another term for stroke, primarily affecting older adults.

TPA (Tissue Plasminogen Activator)

A medication given IV within 4.5 hours of ischemic stroke onset.

Hallucinations

False sensory perceptions that can occur in dementia and delirium.

Emotional Stability in Parkinson's Disease

Patients may exhibit emotional instability alongside physical symptoms like tremors.

Cognitive Functions Affected by Dementia

Loss of memory, orientation, attention, calculation, language, and motor skills.

Communication Techniques for Aphasia

Using pictures, gestures, and speaking slowly to aid understanding.

Patient Care Goals for Dementia

Maintain self-care abilities, prevent injury, and ensure a calm environment.

Use of Music in Dementia Care

Improves communication, reminiscence, and memory recall for patients.

Reality Orientation Guidelines

Include making eye contact, using familiar objects, and engaging in conversation.

Physical Symptoms of Dementia

Include confusion, problems with recent memory, wandering, and inappropriate emotions.

Neurological Changes with Aging

Result in decreased processing speed and cognitive function.

Preventing Falls in Dementia Patients

Essential safety measures include maintaining clear pathways and the use of assistive devices.

Physical Therapy for Stroke Patients

Helps regain function and independence post-stroke.

Cognitive Assessment Challenges

Altered cognition in dementia may complicate pain assessments.

Characteristics of Parkinson's Disease

Includes muscle rigidity, tremors, akinesia, and emotional changes.

Emotional Symptoms in Stroke Patients

Can include intellectual changes and emotional instability post-stroke.

Subtle Warning Signs of Stroke in Women

Include general weakness, disorientation, and confusion.

Nursing Interventions for Dementia Care

Require patience, communication, and support for cognitive and emotional needs.

Long-term Prognosis for Alzheimer's Disease

Average duration is about 8 years but may extend to 20.

Patient Problems Related to Alzheimer's

Include compromised communication and excessive demand on caregivers.

Communication Issues in Dementia

Include memory loss and difficulty focusing attention.

Multiinfarct Dementia Symptoms

Abrupt onset confusion, memory issues, and mood swings.