Chapter 45- NOTES

Visual (Vision)

Perception of light and objects.

Auditory (Hearing)

Perception of sound.

Olfactory (Smell)

Detection of odors.

Gustatory (Taste)

Recognition of taste sensations.

Tactile (Touch)

Detection of pressure, temperature, pain, and texture.

Stereognosis

The ability to recognize the form and solidity of objects by touch.

Kinesthetic and Visceral Senses

Relate to movement and internal body functions, such as hunger or pain.

Proprioception

Awareness of body position and movement without visual cues.

Stimulus

A trigger that activates sensory receptors.

Receptor

A sensory cell or nerve ending that responds to stimuli.

Nervous Pathway to the Brain

The transmission of sensory information from receptors to the brain.

Functioning Brain

The brain processes and translates sensory input into meaningful perceptions.

Reticular Activating System (RAS)

Mediates arousal by monitoring and regulating incoming sensory stimuli.

Sensoristasis

The state of optimal arousal where sensory input is balanced.

Conscious States

Include delirium, dementia, confusion, normal consciousness, somnolence, minimally conscious states, and locked-in syndrome.

Unconscious States

Include sleep, stupor, coma, and vegetative states.

Sensory Overload

The brain is overwhelmed by excessive sensory stimuli, leading to an inability to process or ignore them.

Symptoms of Sensory Overload

Anxiety, confusion, difficulty focusing.

Sensory Deprivation

Occurs when there is reduced sensory input or the inability to perceive stimuli.

Effects of Sensory Deprivation

Perceptual disturbances, cognitive disturbances, emotional disturbances.

Sensory Deficits

Impaired function of one or more senses, such as vision or hearing loss.

Sensory Poverty

Lack of meaningful sensory input in a modern environment.

Developmental Considerations

Age-related changes impact sensory function.

Culture

Cultural norms influence the perception and expression of sensory stimuli.

Personality and Lifestyle

Personal preferences and habits affect sensory perception.

Stress and Illness

Can alter sensory perception, such as numbness in neuropathy.

Medications

Certain drugs can impair or enhance sensory function.

Assessment

Involves history and physical exam to evaluate sensory changes.

Signs of Sensory Deprivation

Include boredom, disorientation, and hallucinations.

Signs of Sensory Overload

Include restlessness, anxiety, and confusion.

Impaired Sensory Perception

Related to vision, hearing, or other sensory functions.

Risk for Injury

Due to diminished sensory perception.

Goal of Nursing Care

Help the patient live in a safe and stimulating environment while managing sensory deficits.

Environmental Control

Reduce unnecessary noise and light for sensory-impaired patients.

Communication for Hearing Impaired

Use visual aids or written communication.

Safety Measures

Ensure clear pathways and remove tripping hazards for those with sensory impairments.

Evaluation

Assess the patient's ability to perform daily activities and comfort level with sensory challenges.

Improving Sensory Functioning

Strategies for visually impaired, hearing impaired, and those with sensory deprivation or overload.

Health Screenings

Encourage regular vision and hearing tests, especially in older adults.

Diet

Ensure adequate intake of vitamins that support sensory health.