University:
York University
Course:
NURSING 2534 | Pathophysiology
Academic year:

2023
Views:

404

Pages:

2
Author:

Niklas

DEMENTIA DELIRIUM Dementia: gradual, permanent mental decline; cognitive decline problems with judgment, memory, and thinking. Delirium: acute, reversible confusional state; withdrawal, fever, infection, hypovolemia. CAUSES: DEMENTIA Neurodegenerative disorders Alzheimer's disease Dementia with Lewy bodies Huntington's disease Parkinson's disease Vascular dementia Frontotemporal dementia Immunologic diseases Infections Meningitis Drugs/Medications Anticholinergics Antiparkinson's Heroin Hypnotics Trauma Tumors DEMENTIA: DIAGNOSIS Physical exam: neuro assessment, SLUMS EXAM Specialized tests: ABC, folate, ionized calcium Imaging: CT/MRI of head NURSING INTERVENTIONS Safe, consistent environment Maintain health & nutrition Support for family & friends Reorient pt as needed Simple, direct statements 5 A's of ALZHEIMER'S Anomia: inability to remember names of things Apraxia: misuse of objects Agnosia: inability to recognize familiar objects Amnesia: memory loss Aphasia: inability to express through speech NURSING MANAGEMENT DO Provide respect & dignity Simplify tasks Be flexible, calm & patient Gentle touch DON'T Criticize, correct, argue Force participation Try to rationalize Talk to pt as if they were not there CAREGIVER TEACHING Mild stage: stop driving Moderate stage: door locks for safety, remove rugs, good lighting Late/Severe stage: regular elimination schedule, oral care, monitor diet & fluids, long-term care facility