ANAPHY LEC Nervous System last part

• Age

• Activity

• Lifestyle

• Illnesses

• Nutrition

Factors Affecting Functioning of the Nervous System

Slower nerve conduction, reduced reflexes, memory decline, decreased sensory acuity.

What is the effect of age on the nervous system?

Older adults may have slower reaction times, risk of dementia, or reduced vision/hearing.

age example

Stimulates neuroplasticity, maintains coordination, improves memory.

How does activity affect the nervous system?

Regular exercise enhances balance and cognition; puzzles and reading strengthen memory.

activity example

Stress, poor sleep, smoking, alcohol, and drug use impair nerve health.

How does lifestyle affect the nervous system?

Chronic stress causes anxiety and depression; alcohol damages cerebellar function.

lifestyle example

Diseases disrupt nerve signaling and structure.

How do illnesses affect the nervous system?

Diabetes → neuropathy; Hypertension → stroke risk; Multiple sclerosis → demyelination.

illness example

Provides building blocks for neurotransmitters and myelin.

How does nutrition affect the nervous system?

Vitamin B12 deficiency → peripheral neuropathy; Omega-3s support synaptic health.

nutrition example

• Regular neuro-checks

• Reflex assessments

• Sleep and stress management

• Patient education

• Safety measures

• Medication adherence monitoring

Common Nursing Interventions in Maintaining a Healthy Nervous System

Assess orientation, pupil size/reaction, motor strength, sensory changes.

What is the purpose of regular neuro-checks?

Post-stroke patient — Perform hourly neuro-checks to detect sudden weakness or slurred speech indicating possible re-bleed.

clinical example of regular neuro-checks

Test deep tendon reflexes and cranial nerve functions.

What is the purpose of reflex assessments?

Spinal cord injury — Monitor patellar reflex and Babinski sign to track recovery or deterioration.

clinical example of reflex assessments

Encourage good sleep hygiene, relaxation, and stress reduction.

How do nurses promote sleep and stress management?

Epilepsy patient — Teach stress-relief methods to minimize seizure triggers; advise on regular sleep patterns.

clinical example of sleep and stress management

Teach about nutrition, exercise, lifestyle choices, and when to seek care.

What does patient education include for nervous system health?

Diabetic neuropathy — Educate on foot care, blood sugar monitoring, and early reporting of numbness or tingling.

clinical example of patient education

Prevent falls, aspiration, or injury during neuro-compromise.

What are safety measures in neurological care?

Seizure patient — Keep padded side rails up, suction ready, and place patient in recovery position after seizure.

clinical example of safety measures

Ensure proper use of neuro-related medications.

What is medication adherence monitoring in neurological care?

Parkinson’s patient — Teach timing of levodopa doses to reduce “off” periods of rigidity and tremors.

clinical examples of medication adherence of monitoring