Neurocognitive Disorders and Substance Abuse Overview

Delirium

A rapid onset condition characterized by confusion and altered levels of consciousness, often reversible by treating underlying causes.

Dementia (NCD)

A chronic, progressive condition resulting in cognitive decline that is generally non-reversible.

Acute

Describes a condition that comes on suddenly and is typically severe in nature.

Chronic

Refers to a condition that develops slowly and persists over a long period.

Altered Level of Consciousness (ALOC)

A state where a person's awareness of their environment and ability to respond is impaired.

Risk Factors for Delirium

Physiological changes, infections, substance use, and environmental changes that can trigger acute confusion.

Risk Factors for Dementia

Advanced age, family history of Alzheimer's disease, and prior head trauma that increase the likelihood of cognitive decline.

Compensation

A defense mechanism where individuals may try to cover up cognitive deficits by using alternative strategies.

Denial

A psychological defense mechanism where individuals refuse to accept the reality of cognitive decline.

Confabulation

The act of creating false memories or stories to fill gaps in memory without the intention to deceive.

Perseveration

The repetition of phrases or behaviors as a way to avoid answering questions or addressing cognitive deficits.

Diagnostic Procedures for NCDs

Testing methods used to rule out other conditions that may mimic neurocognitive disorders, as definitive diagnosis often requires autopsy.

Neuroimaging

Techniques such as CT or PET scans used to visualize brain structure and function in the assessment of cognitive disorders.

Hallucinations

Sensory experiences that appear real but are created by the mind, often seen in delirium.

Illusions

Misinterpretations of real external stimuli, which can occur in states of confusion.

Hyperactive Delirium

A form of delirium characterized by agitation, restlessness, and fluctuating vital signs.

Hypoactive Delirium

A form of delirium marked by decreased activity levels, apathy, and withdrawal.

Mixed Delirium

A type of delirium that presents with symptoms of both hyperactive and hypoactive states.

Medical Emergency

A situation requiring immediate attention, often applicable to severe cases of delirium.

Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances

Disruptions in the body's balance of fluids and minerals, which can contribute to delirium.

Polypharmacy

The concurrent use of multiple medications, which increases the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, potentially impacting cognitive health.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of essential nutrients that can lead to cognitive decline and increase the risk for neurocognitive disorders.

Neurocognitive Disorder (NCD)

A decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily living, often characterized by impairments in memory, judgment, and executive functioning.

Aphasia

A communication disorder that affects a person's ability to process and produce language, impacting speech and comprehension.

Agnosia

The inability to recognize and interpret sensory stimuli, despite having the ability to perceive them.

Apraxia

A motor disorder characterized by difficulty in performing tasks or movements when asked, despite having the desire and physical ability to do so.

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

Medications that increase levels of acetylcholine in the brain by inhibiting its breakdown, often used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

NMDA Receptor Antagonist

A class of medications that block the action of glutamate at the N-Methyl-D-Aspartate receptors, used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

A class of medications commonly used to treat depression and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

Antipsychotics

Medications used to manage psychosis, including hallucinations and delusions, often prescribed for severe mental health conditions.

Executive Functioning

A set of cognitive processes that include planning, decision-making, problem-solving, and controlling attention and behavior.

Personality Change

A gradual alteration in an individual's personality traits, often observed in neurocognitive disorders.

Cognitive Assessment

Tools and methods used to evaluate cognitive function and identify impairments, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).

Home Safety Measures

Strategies implemented to create a safe living environment for individuals with cognitive impairments, reducing the risk of injury.

Support for Caregivers

Resources and strategies provided to assist caregivers in managing the challenges associated with caring for individuals with cognitive disorders.

Substance Use Disorder

A medical condition characterized by an individual's inability to control their use of a substance, leading to significant impairment or distress.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical and psychological effects that occur when a person reduces or stops using a substance they are dependent on.

Dual Diagnosis

The co-occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, requiring integrated treatment approaches.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Relapse Prevention

Strategies and techniques aimed at helping individuals maintain sobriety and avoid returning to substance use.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments in the child.

Agitation

A state of anxiety or nervousness that can manifest as restlessness or aggressive behavior, often seen in individuals with neurocognitive disorders.

Memory Aids

Tools and strategies, such as calendars and photographs, used to assist individuals in recalling information and maintaining orientation.

Medication Compliance

The degree to which a patient correctly follows medical advice regarding medication regimens, crucial for effective treatment outcomes.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

A set of symptoms that occur upon the abrupt cessation of alcohol intake, typically starting within hours of the last drink.

Benzodiazepines

Medications used to manage anxiety and agitation during alcohol withdrawal, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent seizures.

Carbamazepine

An anticonvulsant medication that can be used as an adjunct treatment to decrease the risk of seizures during alcohol withdrawal.

Chlordiazepoxide

A benzodiazepine specifically indicated for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Clonidine

A medication that can help alleviate some withdrawal symptoms by decreasing autonomic responses.

Propranolol

A beta-blocker that can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety and autonomic hyperactivity during alcohol withdrawal.

Naltrexone

An opioid antagonist used to reduce cravings and the pleasurable effects of alcohol in individuals abstaining from alcohol.

Disulfiram

A medication that causes unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed, used as a deterrent for drinking.

Acamprosate

A medication that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals trying to maintain abstinence from alcohol.

Seizure Precautions

Safety measures implemented to protect individuals at risk of seizures during alcohol withdrawal.

Withdrawal Manifestations

Physical and psychological symptoms experienced during the process of detoxification from alcohol.

Substitution Therapy

A treatment approach that involves replacing the substance of dependence with a safer alternative to ease withdrawal symptoms.

Intended Effects of Treatment

Goals of medication management during withdrawal, including reducing cravings, maintaining vital signs, and minimizing withdrawal symptoms.

Monitoring Vital Signs

The ongoing assessment of heart rate, blood pressure, and other indicators to ensure the safety of individuals undergoing withdrawal.

Nursing Actions

Interventions performed by nurses to ensure patient safety and comfort during the withdrawal process.

Psychological First Aid

Supportive care provided to individuals experiencing acute stress or trauma, often used in the context of substance withdrawal.

Acute Battering Phase

The stage in the cycle of violence characterized by severe physical abuse following a period of tension-building.

Honeymoon Phase

The period following an abusive incident where the perpetrator shows remorse and the victim hopes for change.

Tension-Building Phase

The stage in the cycle of violence where minor incidents of anger occur, leading up to a major abusive event.

Risk Factors for Violence

Characteristics or circumstances that increase the likelihood of violent behavior, such as substance abuse or a history of violence.

Types of Violence

Different forms of violence, including physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect, that can occur in various relationships.

Victim Characteristics

Common traits or situations that may increase an individual's vulnerability to becoming a victim of violence.

Perpetrator Characteristics

Common traits or behaviors associated with individuals who commit acts of violence.

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing

A structured group discussion aimed at helping individuals process and cope with the emotional aftermath of a traumatic event.

Mandatory Reporting Laws

Legal requirements for certain professionals to report suspected cases of abuse or neglect.

Safety Plan

A personalized strategy developed to help individuals avoid dangerous situations and ensure their safety.

Therapeutic Communication

A technique used by healthcare providers to facilitate open dialogue and support for individuals in distress.

Crisis Intervention Techniques

Strategies employed to provide immediate support and assistance to individuals in crisis situations.

Sexual Assault

An act of sexual violence that occurs without the consent of the victim.

Rape

A crime involving nonconsensual sexual penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth.

Rape-Trauma Syndrome

A sustained and maladaptive response to a forced, violent sexual penetration against an individual's will.

Compound Rape Reaction

A response where survivors experience additional psychological disorders following the assault.

Silent Rape Reaction

A situation where the survivor does not disclose the assault to anyone.

Acquaintance Rape

A form of rape where the perpetrator is known to the victim.

Date Rape

A type of sexual assault that occurs during a date or social encounter.

Marital Rape

Nonconsensual sexual activity between spouses.

Emotional Follow-Up

The process of addressing the emotional aftermath of a sexual assault.

Coping Mechanisms

Strategies used by individuals to manage stress and emotional pain.

SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner)

A specialized nurse trained to provide care and collect evidence from sexual assault survivors.

Support Systems

Networks of family, friends, or professionals that provide emotional and practical support.

Informed Consent

The process of obtaining permission from a patient before conducting assessments or treatments.

Prophylactic Treatment

Preventive medical treatment administered to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Anticipatory Guidance

Providing information and support to prepare individuals for potential future challenges.

Closure

The process of concluding a session or discussion, affirming participants' experiences.

Initial Emotional Reaction

The immediate response a survivor may have following an assault, which can include shock or denial.

Altered Behaviors

Changes in an individual's actions or emotional responses following a traumatic event.

Physical Changes

Observable changes in a person's physical state or health after experiencing trauma.

Anxiety

A common emotional response characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear.

Depression

A mental health disorder marked by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.

Somatic Reactions

Physical symptoms that arise from psychological distress.

Hysteria

An exaggerated or uncontrollable emotional response, often seen in trauma survivors.

Numbness

A state of emotional detachment or lack of feeling, often experienced after trauma.

Photographic Evidence

Visual documentation collected during a forensic examination to support legal cases.

Emergency Contraception

A method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse.

Psychotherapy

A therapeutic approach to treat emotional and psychological issues through conversation.