16.Neuro_PT1_study_guide

Nervous System

The system that directs/integrates the function of all body systems, processes information, and transmits responses.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Composed of the brain and spinal cord; processes information and is involved in emotion, memory, cognition, and learning.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Functions in transmission of impulses to and from the CNS to peripheral tissues.

Somatic Nervous System

Regulates voluntary activities through skeletal muscles.

Afferent Pathways

Carry sensory impulses to the CNS.

Efferent Pathways

Carry motor impulses to effector organs.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary activities of organ systems.

Sympathetic System

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for 'fight or flight' responses.

Parasympathetic System

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for 'rest and digest' activities.

Neuron

Basic unit of the nervous system responsible for communication through action potentials.

Electrical Synapses

Connections where ions pass through gap junctions between cells allowing fast transmission of action potentials.

Chemical Synapses

Connections where neurotransmitter release facilitates or inhibits action potential transmission.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses.

Glial Cells

Supporting cells in the CNS that include oligodendroglia, astroglia, microglia, and ependymal cells.

Myelin Sheath

Insulating layer around neurons that increases the speed of nerve conduction.

Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps between myelin segments where action potentials jump, increasing conduction velocity.

Blood-Brain Barrier

A protective barrier that maintains a stable environment for the brain.

Cerebrum

Largest part of the brain, involved in complex thought, voluntary movement, and sensory processing.

Frontal Lobe

Part of the cerebrum associated with motor function and complex thought processes.

Temporal Lobe

Part of the brain associated with auditory processing and language comprehension.

Occipital Lobe

Region of the cerebrum that contains the visual cortex.

Parietal Lobe

Area responsible for processing sensory information such as touch.

Cerebellum

Brain region that coordinates and smooths movements, maintaining posture and balance.

Thalamus

Brain structure that integrates signals between the cortex and brainstem.

Hypothalamus

Regulates autonomic nervous system activities and homeostatic functions.

Brainstem

Controls basic bodily functions, including breathing and heart rate.

Intracranial Pressure (ICP)

Pressure within the skull that indicates issues like edema or hemorrhage.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid that protects and cushions the brain, maintaining a stable environment.

Circle of Willis

Anastomosis at the base of the brain that ensures cerebral blood flow continuity.

Stroke

A medical condition where blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain damage.

Ischemic Stroke

Caused by thrombosis or embolism blocking blood flow to the brain.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures in the brain, causing bleeding into brain tissue.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A temporary episode of reduced blood flow to the brain, with symptoms lasting less than 24 hours.

Generalized Seizures

Seizures that involve sudden onset in both hemispheres of the brain.

Focal Seizures

Seizures that begin in a specific area of one hemisphere.

Status Epilepticus

A medical emergency characterized by prolonged seizure activity.

Neurotransmitter Imbalance

An alteration in the levels of neurotransmitters that can affect neuronal communication.

Electrolyte Imbalances

Disturbances in electrolyte levels that can lead to neurological dysfunction.

Demyelination

Loss of the myelin sheath around nerve fibers, leading to impaired conduction.

Cognitive Function

Mental processes associated with thinking, learning, and memory.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Fight or Flight Response

Physiological reaction to perceived harmful events, attacks, or threats.

Rest and Digest Response

Physiological state that promotes relaxation and conserves energy.

Pathological Changes

Alterations in normal physiological processes that can lead to disease.

Nursing Assessment Findings

Observations and tests conducted by nurses to evaluate patient health.