Intracranial Regulation and Seizures

This set of flashcards focuses on key concepts related to intracranial regulation, its impairment, and seizure activity, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Intracranial regulation refers to the components that lie within the skull including the brain, circulatory system, and __.

dura mater.

The risk factors for impaired intracranial regulation include age, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and __.

obesity.

A leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is __, which disproportionately affects the youngest and oldest age groups.

falls.

Cerebral edema may be classified into three types: vasogenic, cytotoxic, and __.

interstitial.

An increase in intracranial pressure is defined as sustained pressure greater than __ mm Hg.

20.

Symptoms of increased intracranial pressure may include headache, vomiting, and decreased __.

level of consciousness (LOC).

Cognitive function is dependent on optimally functioning brain; if intracranial regulation is disrupted, cognitive function may be __.

impaired.

Hyperglycemia can worsen brain damage during a __.

stroke.

Optimal function of the brain is dependent on the transmission of nerve impulses across neuronal synapses by __.

neurotransmitters.

Impaired perfusion can be caused by internal blockages of a vessel, severe hypotension, or loss of __ integrity.

vessel.

_ is important for adequate brain function as it delivers oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

Blood flow.

One of the diagnostic tests for intracranial regulation issues is the __, which measures the brain's electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp.

EEG.

Increased intracranial pressure can result from conditions such as TBI, __ aneurysm, and hydrocephalus.

ruptured.

A __ may be indicated when infection is suspected, but should be performed after a CT scan if intracranial hypertension is suspected.

lumbar puncture.

The brain undergoes significant development during __ and childhood, impacting intracranial regulation.

infancy.

During aging, there is a reduction in brain size, weight, and the number of __.

neurons.

Cushing's Triad is characterized by high blood pressure, slow heart rate, and __ breathing.

irregular.

A __ craniectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part of the skull to relieve pressure.

decompressive.

The origin of focal seizures is usually in one specific __ of the cortex.

region.

Seizure disorders consist of a group of neurological diseases marked by __ seizures.

recurring.

Generalized seizures begin with bilateral synchronous epileptic discharges in the __.

brain.

Absence seizures are often characterized by a brief __ that resembles daydreaming.

staring spell.

The main medication used to treat generalized tonic clonic seizures includes __ and carbamazepine.

phenytoin.

Postictal symptoms can include confusion, fatigue, and memory __ after a seizure.

loss.

The __ phase is the period of recovery after a seizure has occurred.

postictal.

Focal impaired awareness seizures may cause patients to perform actions that seem __ but they cannot interact with observers.

purposeful.

A secondary generalized seizure can cause temporary weakness in one part of the body known as __ paralysis.

Todd's.

Increased intracranial pressure therapy may involve osmotic diuretics such as __ to draw water across the blood-brain barrier.

mannitol.

Head of the bed elevation is recommended while cerebral perfusion pressure is __.

normal.

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid used to reduce __ associated with tumors and abscesses.

cerebral edema.

Seizures caused by structural lesions such as trauma or brain tumors occur primarily in patients aged __ to 30.

20.

The __ phase of a seizure may include signs that precede a seizure event.

prodrome.

Risk factors for impaired intracranial regulation may also include __ exposure or substance use.

toxic.

Children are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia due to their smaller __ stores.

glycogen.

A tonic-clonic seizure is characterized by muscle stiffness followed by __ limb jerking.

rhythmic.

Seizure medications should start based on the patient's age, weight, and the type of __.

seizures.

Patients recovering from seizures may require physical therapy to facilitate __ functioning post-injury.

optimal.

Common adverse effects of anticonvulsant medications include diplopia, drowsiness, and __.

ataxia.

A focal aware seizure does not involve loss of __.

consciousness.

_ changes can occur due to impaired intracranial regulation, including abrupt variations in consciousness.

Behavioral.

Atonic seizures result in a sudden loss of __ tone, often causing falls.

muscle.

Seizures may be characterized as generalized onset, focal onset, or __ onset.

unknown.

Glucose regulation is vital because the brain requires a __ supply of glucose to maintain optimal functioning.

constant.

In the postictal state, some patients may experience prolonged confusion or __.

somnolence.

An EEG can help pinpoint the __ focus in seizure disorders.

seizure.

Antiepileptic medications are primarily used to stabilize nerve cell membranes and prevent the __ of epileptic discharge.

spread.

Cerebral perfusion pressure monitoring is critical for patients with __ head injuries.

severe.

Post-seizure, patients may require repositioning, suctioning, and __ for breathing support.

oxygen.

The brain cannot store glucose, making a constant supply crucial for __ function.

brain.

Seizures that cause both stiffening and jerking are known as tonic-clonic, which are the most __ type of generalized seizures.

common.

Patients with uncontrolled seizures may be required to follow a specific __ management plan to avoid complications.

nursing.