Comprehensive Study Guide for Neuro + Endocrine + Fluid & Electrolyte Regulation

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions from the neuroscience, endocrine, and fluid-electrolyte sections of the comprehensive study guide.

Cerebral Cortex

The part of the brain responsible for higher-level functions such as reasoning, motor function, and sensory perception.

Basal Ganglia

A group of structures in the brain involved in the control of movement and coordination.

Limbic System

The brain structure associated with emotions, memory, and motivation.

Brain Stem

The part of the brain that controls vital functions, including breathing and heart rate.

Acute Pain

Pain that is severe but short-term, often serving as a warning for injury or disease.

Chronic Pain

Pain that persists for a long time, often with no clear cause, potentially affecting daily life.

Nociceptive Pain

Pain from physical damage or potential damage to the body.

Neuropathic Pain

Pain caused by damage to the nervous system.

Referred Pain

Pain perceived in an area of the body other than the site of the painful stimulus.

Sympathetic Nervous System Activation

The body's 'fight or flight' response, resulting in increased heart rate and blood pressure during acute pain.

Multimodal Pain Control

Using multiple medication classes to address different pain mechanisms for better pain relief.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to reduce inflammation and pain.

Opioids

A class of drugs used to manage severe pain; can cause sedation and respiratory depression.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)

Drug-induced movement disorders that can include tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Status Epilepticus

A medical emergency characterized by prolonged seizures that require immediate treatment.

ALS

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons.

Diabetes Insipidus (DI)

A disorder caused by insufficient secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive urination.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, causing accelerated metabolism.

Cushing’s Syndrome

A disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

Addison’s Disease

A disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient steroid hormones.

DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)

A serious complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar, ketones, and acidosis.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

A hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts.

Fluid Balance

The balance of water and electrolytes in the body essential for normal function.

RAAS (Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System)

A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.