Chapter 37 Caring for Clients With Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders

What is the main consequence of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Impaired cellular activity, temporary or permanent neurologic dysfunction, or death.

What are common causes of increased intracranial pressure?

Brain tumors, swelling or bleeding from head trauma, infectious and inflammatory disorders of the brain.

What are the three components of the Cushing triad?

Increased pulse rate that decreases, rising systolic blood pressure with widening pulse pressure, irregular respiratory rate.

What position should be maintained for a patient with increased ICP?

Head in midline at 30° of elevation.

What is the nursing management step for a client with suspected meningitis?

Conduct a lumbar puncture for diagnostic testing.

What signs are indicative of Guillain–Barré Syndrome?

Weakness, numbness, tingling in limbs, and progressive paralysis.

What management is provided for a patient with encephalitis?

Supportive care with antipyretics, anticonvulsants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and analgesics.

What diagnostic tests are used to confirm Multiple Sclerosis?

Lumbar puncture, CSF analysis, CT scan, and MRI.

What treatment options are available for Myasthenia Gravis?

Anticholinesterase drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and possible thymectomy.

What neurologic assessment tool can be utilized for patients with altered consciousness?

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).

Which symptoms are characteristic of Bell Palsy?

Facial pain, numbness, diminished blink reflex, and ptosis.

What is the primary management for a brain abscess?

Antimicrobial therapy and possibly surgical intervention (craniotomy).

What is a significant side effect of Myasthenia Gravis affecting breathing?

Muscle weakness impacting respiratory function.

What findings would indicate the presence of increased intracranial pressure?

Headache, vomiting, and changes in level of consciousness.

What key assessments are involved in managing Parkinson disease?

Assessment of rigidity, tremors, bradykinesia, and overall mobility.

What is the cause of Alzheimer’s disease?

The cause remains unknown, with a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors implicated.

What might be a consequence of a failing treatment plan for a neurodegenerative disorder?

Increased dependency on caregivers and deterioration of quality of life.

What laboratory findings are expected in a patient with meningitis?

Elevated white blood cell count in CSF and possible positive cultures.

What medication management strategy is commonly used for seizures?

Anticonvulsant drugs such as phenytoin and carbamazepine.

What nursing intervention should be taken during a seizure?

Position the patient on their side to maintain airway patency.

What are the symptoms of Huntington's disease?

Choreiform movements, emotional disturbances, and intellectual decline.

What are the two types of seizures?

Partial seizures and generalized seizures.

What is the critical factor to monitor following a lumbar puncture?

Headache and signs of infection at the puncture site.

What distinguishes a generalized tonic-clonic seizure?

Muscle alternates between contraction and relaxation with jerking movements.

What is the purpose of using supportive therapy in cases of encephalitis?

To manage symptoms and prevent secondary complications.

What type of changes in vital signs are expected in a patient with neurologic dysfunction?

Changes related to ICP, such as hypertension and irregular respiratory rate.