Neurology, Imaging, and Communication - Vocabulary Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering neurological reflexes, imaging procedures, neurological assessment, communication and swallowing challenges, and related care/interventions.

Babinski reflex

A test where the sole is stroked; normal adult response is toe curling; extension of the big toe or fanning of the other toes indicates neuro dysfunction; infants may extend toes due to neurological immaturity.

Plantar reflex

Curling of the toes; negative Babinski reflex; normal in healthy adults.

Babinski sign (positive)

Big toe dorsiflexion with fanning of the other toes; indicates absence of descending inhibition; normal in infants but pathologic in adults.

Descending inhibition

Neural control that suppresses primitive reflexes; its absence allows the Babinski sign to appear in adults.

Computed Tomography (CT) scan

Imaging method using X-rays with contrast when ordered; requires preprocedure checks (allergies, BUN/creatinine) and possibly sedation; postprocedure care includes hydration and monitoring for reactions.

Contrast dye

Radiopaque substance used during CT/MRI; can cause warmth, a metallic taste, and allergic reactions; allergies should be screened.

Allergy check for contrast

Assessment for shellfish/iodine allergies prior to contrast administration.

BUN (blood urea nitrogen)

Kidney function test; used to assess renal function before contrast administration.

Creatinine (Cr)

Kidney function marker; checked before contrast administration.

Sedation

Medication given to ease procedure-related anxiety or discomfort as ordered.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Imaging that uses magnets and radio waves; no ionizing radiation; louder and with contraindications for certain implants; can be performed with or without contrast; generally safer in pregnancy.

Cerebral Angiogram

Imaging test that visualizes cerebral blood vessels to detect narrowing or obstruction; requires informed consent and IV access; may involve sedation.

Postprocedure care (Angiogram)

Maintain bed rest for 4–6 hours; apply site pressure for 3–6 hours; monitor vital signs and insertion site for bleeding or hematoma; assess distal pulses and color; encourage fluids.

EEG

Electrical recording of brain activity to determine seizure activity; involves placing scalp electrodes; preprocedure care includes clean/dry hair and medication review; postprocedure care includes washing hair.

Seizure activity

Abnormal, synchronized electrical discharges in the brain detected on EEG.

Contracture

Permanent shortening of muscles or tendons leading to restricted movement; prevention includes positioning and splints.

Foot drop

Difficulty or inability to dorsiflex the foot; often prevented with ankle-foot orthoses or high-top shoes/splints.

High-top tennis shoes (splints)

Foot and ankle support devices used to prevent contractures and foot drop during recovery.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Self-care tasks; independence is based on functional level; routine maintenance with needed assistance.

Dysarthria

Difficulty speaking due to motor control problems of the lips, tongue, or jaw.

Expressive aphasia

Inability or difficulty to verbally express language; language production is impaired.

Receptive aphasia

Impaired ability to understand spoken language; may not follow commands.

Interventions for communication

Strategies such as using yes/no questions, correcting substituted words, anticipating needs, using gestures, and being patient.

Dysphagia

Impaired swallowing; require assessment and management to prevent aspiration.

Thickened liquids

Modification of liquid consistency to aid swallowing in dysphagia.

Upright position for eating

Sitting upright during meals to aid swallowing and reduce aspiration risk.

Enteral feeding

Tube feeding used when oral intake is insufficient or unsafe.

ISBARR

A structured communication framework: Identify, Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation, Read-back.

Pupillary light reflex

Pupils constrict in response to light; involves afferent CN II (optic) and efferent CN III (oculomotor); abnormal responses may indicate nerve damage.

Cranial nerve III (Oculomotor)

Nerve that controls most eye movements and pupil constriction; efferent limb of the pupillary light reflex.

Cranial nerve X (Vagus)

Nerve that provides parasympathetic control of heart rate and blood pressure.

Pupil response to light indicating CN III involvement

A nonconstricting 3 mm pupil on light exposure suggests possible CN III (oculomotor) dysfunction.

Supervised meals in stroke (dysphagia management)

Ensuring mealtime supervision and pacing to reduce aspiration risk in patients with swallowing difficulties.