Prof. Name
Date
Exam #2 Topics Review
1. Neurological Conditions
Head Injury
When managing a patient with a head injury, it is essential to anticipate seizures. Patients are generally placed on anticonvulsant medications as a preventative measure. Key signs and symptoms include cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and notable discoloration.
Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP)
ICP management requires monitoring specific symptoms and positioning the patient with their head elevated at 30 degrees. Monitoring is typically achieved with specialized devices, and prompt management of these signs and symptoms is crucial to prevent further complications.
Stroke
Understanding the various types of strokes, including ischemic and hemorrhagic, is essential for providing effective management. Immediate CT scans help determine stroke type, guiding appropriate treatment interventions. Management includes maintaining a patent airway, conducting a swallow study, and using thrombolytic therapy where appropriate. Attention to left-sided versus right-sided strokes is also essential for tailored interventions.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Often referred to as a “mini-stroke,” a TIA requires immediate management to prevent escalation.
Seizures
Seizure management includes understanding different types, implementing safety precautions, and providing medication therapy as appropriate. Specific considerations are necessary for managing seizure status epilepticus and determining suitable seizure medications based on patient needs.
Meningitis
Key symptoms of meningitis require prompt attention. Management focuses on symptom control and specific tests, such as a lumbar puncture, to confirm the diagnosis.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease presents with unique symptoms that require monitoring.
Alzheimer’s Disease
A form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by specific symptoms, and its management involves addressing memory loss and behavioral symptoms.
2. Other Conditions Affecting Brain and Nervous System
Intracranial Pressure (ICP)
Normal ICP values are essential for understanding increased pressure levels, which may be caused by edema. Management includes monitoring pressure and administering intracranial diuretics as needed.
Cranial Nerves
Knowledge of cranial nerves, their names, and functions is essential, as well as understanding the cerebellum’s role in balance, tested through the Romberg Test.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis often leads to paralysis, and priority care includes performing Tensilon testing.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
ALS results in progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Care for ALS patients involves specific interventions to address priority needs.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Management focuses on priority care to address respiratory and muscle weakness symptoms.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
MS management involves understanding the unique presentation of the condition, appropriate treatment, and priority care measures.
Delirium
Patients with acute confusion present with specific symptoms that require careful management, with a focus on safety measures.
3. Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Conditions
Spinal Cord Injury
Different spinal cord injury levels, such as T12 and C9, affect patient outcomes differently. Management includes addressing complications and providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
Gallbladder Disease
Gallbladder inflammation and gallstones may necessitate surgical intervention. Post-operative care requires specific management to ensure patient recovery.
Pancreatitis
Both acute and chronic pancreatitis have distinct symptoms, with acute cases often associated with hypocalcemia. Chronic pancreatitis management involves lab value monitoring and priority care for patient stabilization.
Hepatitis
Understanding the types of hepatitis and their modes of transmission is crucial for effective disease management.
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cirrhosis is an end-stage liver disease with incurable status. Patients may experience symptoms such as edema and weight gain. Medication and nutritional management are integral to care, along with addressing complications such as varices and bleeding.
Pancreatic Cancer
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer often include a history of chronic pancreatitis. Priority care measures aim to manage symptoms and support the patient’s overall quality of life.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer requires risk factor assessment and specific priority care interventions.
NR 325 Exam 2
Table 1: Neurological Conditions
| Condition | Key Symptoms/Concerns | Management Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Head Injury | CSF leakage, discoloration | Anticipate seizures; administer anticonvulsants |
| Increased ICP | Elevated ICP symptoms | Monitor; elevate head 30 degrees |
| Stroke | Depends on type (ischemic/hemorrhagic) | CT scan; airway management; thrombolytic therapy |
| Seizures | Epileptic episodes | Safety precautions; medication therapy |
NR 325 Exam 2
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.).