[ANSWERED 2023] Identify a common perceptual, neurological, or cognitive issue and discuss contributing factors. Outline steps for prevention or health promotion for the patient and family

Identify a common perceptual, neurological, or cognitive issue and discuss contributing factors.

Identify a common perceptual, neurological, or cognitive issue and discuss contributing factors. Outline steps for prevention or health promotion for the patient and family.

DQ1: Expert Answer and Explanation

Cognitive Issue

One common cognitive issue within the community setting is dementia. Dementia is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the brain with regards to thinking, memory, behavior, and the overall ability to undertake daily activities. Various elements constitute the risk factors of dementia among the general population.

One of the main risk factors for dementia is the advancement in the age of an individual (Booker et al., 2016). Aging causes increased cell death within the brain leading to severe impacts of dementia on the patient.

Other factors include genetics based on family history, smoking or alcohol use, cholesterol, and atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque). These factors can either be preventable through lifestyle changes while others cannot be prevented such as aging or genetic affiliation. Severe dementia can lead to Alzheimer’s disease which is irreversible and can have significant symptoms to the patent.

There are various ways in which a nurse can conduct disease prevention and health promotion for the patient and family. To begin with, sensitizing the patient and family on the non-preventable risks such as age and genetics are important in creating acceptance and support caring for the patients (Smith, 2016).

Concerning the preventable risks, it is essential for nurses to provides patient awareness of the measures that can be taken to avoid the risks of getting the disease. for instance, sensitizing on lifestyle changes, improved exercises for the overweight or obese, and avoidance of smoking and use of alcohol can help promote health among the population.

To address disease prevention, the nurses and healthcare practitioners can conduct community care where early diagnosis is conducted to identify the illness in its early stages and treat it before it gets severe and irreversible.

References

Booker, A., Jacob, L. E., Rapp, M., Bohlken, J., & Kostev, K. (2016). Risk Factors For Dementia Diagnosis In German Primary Care Practices. International Psychogeriatrics, 28(7), 1059-1065. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1017/S1041610215002082

Smith, G. E. (2016). Healthy cognitive aging and dementia prevention. American Psychologist, 71(4), 268. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1037/a0040250

DQ 1: Alternative Answer

Health Promotion for Dementia

Cognitive issues come in different types, and each type can have unique symptoms. One of these issues is the dementia, and it is characterized by various symptoms. A personal with this cognitive condition will experience the loss of their memory, and they may experience challenges performing various familiar tasks including coming up with solutions to problems.

Manifestation of the symptoms of this condition additionally include the inability of one to understand visual information, and they may not speak or write in a coherent manner (Rakesh et al., 2017).

Besides, people with this cognitive disorder misplace things.Various factors can alter one’s cognitive functioning, and ultimately cause this cognitive disorder. Certain classes of medications, for instance, can induce this disorder, and the risk may be high if one has to take medications to treat a lifetime illness such as Human Immunodeficiency Viral (HIV) infections.

A class of pharmacological drugs that can increase one’s exposure to this condition is the anticholinergic medication. Still, the HIV infection, can cause this disorder if this infection progresses to an advanced stage (Carmeli & Imam, 2014).

Encephalopathy describes a condition in which this infection adversely damages the brain. However, physical injuries as well as a number of diseases including the Parkinson’s can cause one to develop this disease.

The health promotion for dementia patients should focus on the prevention of the cognitive decline for at risk populations. It is important to recommend to the patient a diet that can improve their memory, and fish as well as fruits are known to be effective in terms of improving one’s memory.

Another prevention is conducting medical examinations to identify the presence of certain medical conditions which can increase one’s risk of developing the disorder.

It is also imperative to promote awareness to help at risk populations be aware of how they can prevent injuries (Budson & Solomon, 2015). Involving the family in planning for the treatment can be helpful in the sense that it encourages adherence to clinical instructions.

References

Budson, A. E., & Solomon, P. R. (2015). Memory Loss, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Dementia E-Book: A Practical Guide for Clinicians. Amsterdam: Elsevier.

Carmeli, E., & Imam, B. (2014). Health promotion and disease prevention strategies in older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Frontiers in public health, 2, 31. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2014.00031.

Rakesh, G., Szabo, S. T., Alexopoulos, G. S., & Zannas, A. S. (2017). Strategies for dementia prevention: latest evidence and implications. Therapeutic advances in chronic disease, 8(8-9), 121–136. doi:10.1177/2040622317712442.

Discuss characteristic findings for a stroke and how it affects the lives of patients and their families. Discuss the nurse’s role in supporting the patient’s psychological and emotional needs. Provide an example.

DQ 2: Expert Answer and Explanation

Impact of Stroke

The occurrence of a stroke happens when the overall supply of blood to the parts of the brain is reduced or interrupted which prevents the brain tissues from being supplied with sufficient nutrients and oxygen. Without brain cell oxygenation, they begin to die after a few minutes leading to a stroke and potentially cause permanent brain damage (He et al., 2018).

There are two main causes of stroke including hemorrhagic stroke (evidenced by leaking or bursting artery due to head injuries or trauma from accidents) or ischemic stroke (evidenced by a blocked artery either by a clot or due to fat deposits inside the arteries).

There are characteristics and symptoms associate with stroke with the prime including difficulty in speaking, paralysis in one side of the body, headache, and difficulties in walking. These symptoms vary in different stroke patients depending on the affected part of the brain (He et al., 2018).

Risk factors associated with stroke can be divided into either lifestyle risk factors or medical risk factors. Lifestyle factors include obesity, physical inactivity, and use of alcohol or drugs while medical risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea.

Nurses play a key role in supporting a patient’s psychological and emotional needs in various ways. for instance, a nurse can help provide patient education to the caregivers or family on how to deal with the symptoms exhibited by the patient. this reduces overdependence on medical professionals and improves the healing process (Dreyer et al., 2016).

Nurses can also make use of the evidence-based practice to offer the patient the most available care, better treatment options, and improve the nurse-to-patient interactions. A nurse can also make use of spiritual care to instill hope and improve both the psychological and emotional needs of the patient.

References

Dreyer, P., Angel, S., Langhorn, L., Pedersen, B. B., & Aadal, L. (2016). Nursing roles and functions in the acute and subacute rehabilitation of patients with stroke: Going all in for the patient. Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 48(2), 108-115. Doi: 10.1097/JNN.0000000000000191

He, W., Liu, Y., Feng, J., Huang, Q., Xu, J., Liu, X., … & Liu, H. (2018). The epidemiological characteristics of stroke in Hunan Province, China. Frontiers in neurology, 9, 583. Doi: https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2018.00583

DQ 2: Alternative Answer

Providing Support to Stroke Patient

Stroke results either due to the blockage of the blood-flow to the brain or the unexpected bleeding in the brain, and it is associated with various clinical manifestations. Characteristic findings for this condition include difficulty maintaining a normal body balance, and an individual with this disease is at risk of falling or stumbling.

In some cases, a stroke patient may find it difficult to speak and understand words because of the confusion that comes with this disease. Paralysis is a common manifestation of this condition, and one’s face or their limbs may become number, especially on one side of their body (Hill, Evans, & Forbat, 2015).

Stroke is inherently an adverse health condition, and it can alter one’s personal life and adversely affect their family members. A stroke patient may experience impaired functional mobility, and this may affect how they walk. The family may have to apply more efforts in helping assist such a patient to perform chores such as bathing.

Assisting the patient to perform these chores can a times be a challenge for family members. Given that change of behavior is a manifestation of this condition, a patient in this state may experience the alteration of their behaviors. When they patients behave abnormally, family members may become stressed (Lucchetti, Prieto, & Damiano, 2019).

Nursing intervention is necessary for the patients to receive emotional and psychological support. For the nurses, offering support may involve talking to the patient about stroke and assuring these patients that they will heal.

Additionally, the nurse may involve the patient in discussing personal as well as spiritual and concerns. Based on the information the patient provides in this context, they may work with psychologists and counselors to help provide holistic care to meet the needs of these patients (Flanagan &  Thornton, 2014).

References

Flanagan, B., &  Thornton, S. G. (2014). The Bloomsbury guide to pastoral care. London : Bloomsbury Continuum.

Hill, H., Evans, J. M., & Forbat, L. (2015). Nurses respond to patients’ psychosocial needs by dealing, ducking, diverting and deferring: an observational study of a hospice ward. BMC nursing, 14, 60. doi:10.1186/s12912-015-0112-8.

Lucchetti, G., Prieto, P. M. F., & Damiano, R. F. (2019). Spirituality, religiousness and health: From research to clinical practice. Cham: Springer.

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FAQs

Cognitive deficits examples

Cognitive deficits refer to difficulties with mental processes that impact an individual’s ability to perform certain tasks or activities. Here are some examples of cognitive deficits:

1. Memory impairment: Difficulty in recalling information, such as people’s names, dates, and events.
2. Attention deficits: Inability to focus and concentrate on tasks for prolonged periods, easy distraction, or inability to multitask.
3. Executive functioning deficits: Difficulty with planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making.
4. Language deficits: Difficulty with reading, writing, speaking, or understanding language.
5. Perception deficits: Difficulty interpreting sensory information, such as difficulty recognizing familiar faces or objects.
6. Spatial deficits: Difficulty navigating in space, judging distances, and recognizing spatial relationships.
7. Motor deficits: Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing, or gross motor skills, such as walking or running.

Causes of cognitive disorders

There are many possible causes of cognitive disorders, which are conditions that affect an individual’s mental processes, such as thinking, memory, perception, and communication. Here are some common causes of cognitive disorders:

1. Neurodegenerative disorders: Diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss.
2. Stroke or brain injury: Damage to the brain from a stroke, head injury, or other trauma can cause cognitive deficits.
3. Infections: Some infections, such as meningitis, encephalitis, and HIV/AIDS, can affect the brain and cause cognitive disorders.
4. Substance abuse: Long-term substance abuse, such as alcohol or drugs, can damage the brain and cause cognitive deficits.
5. Mental health disorders: Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia can impact cognitive abilities.
6. Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and iron, can lead to cognitive impairment.
7. Genetics: Inherited genetic mutations can cause cognitive disorders, such as Down syndrome.
8. Aging: As people age, they may experience age-related cognitive decline.

Types of cognitive impairments

There are various types of cognitive impairments, which are conditions that affect an individual’s mental processes, such as thinking, memory, perception, and communication. Here are some common types of cognitive impairments:

1. Memory impairments: Difficulty in recalling information, such as people’s names, dates, and events.
2. Attention deficits: Inability to focus and concentrate on tasks for prolonged periods, easy distraction, or inability to multitask.
3. Executive functioning deficits: Difficulty with planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making.
4. Language impairments: Difficulty with reading, writing, speaking, or understanding language.
5. Perception impairments: Difficulty interpreting sensory information, such as difficulty recognizing familiar faces or objects.
6. Spatial impairments: Difficulty navigating in space, judging distances, and recognizing spatial relationships.
7. Motor impairments: Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing, or gross motor skills, such as walking or running.
8. Social cognition impairments: Difficulty with understanding social cues, recognizing emotions, and interpreting social situations.
9. Intelligence impairments: Difficulty with learning and understanding new information, and slower processing of information.

List of cognitive disorders in childhood

Here are some common cognitive disorders that can occur in childhood:

1. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior.
3. Intellectual Disability (ID): A disorder characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.
4. Learning Disabilities (LD): A group of disorders that affect reading, writing, math, and/or other academic skills.
5. Dyslexia: A specific type of learning disability that affects reading.
6. Dysgraphia: A specific type of learning disability that affects writing.
7. Dyscalculia: A specific type of learning disability that affects math.
8. Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): A disorder that affects coordination, motor skills, and balance.
9. Language Disorders: A group of disorders that affect the ability to use and understand language.
10. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): A disorder that affects the way the brain processes sensory information.

Cognitive impairment test

There are several tests that can be used to evaluate cognitive impairment, and the choice of test depends on the individual’s symptoms, age, and medical history. Here are some commonly used cognitive impairment tests:

1. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): A brief test that assesses orientation, attention, memory, language, and visuospatial skills.
2. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA): A more extensive test that evaluates a range of cognitive functions, including attention, memory, language, visuospatial skills, and executive function.
3. Clock Drawing Test: A simple test that evaluates visuospatial skills, executive function, and memory by asking the person to draw a clock face and set the hands to a specific time.
4. Trail Making Test: A test that evaluates visual attention, processing speed, and executive function by asking the person to connect a series of numbered and lettered dots in sequence.
5. Stroop Test: A test that evaluates attention and cognitive flexibility by asking the person to name the ink color of a word while ignoring the word’s meaning.
6. Digit Span Test: A test that evaluates working memory by asking the person to repeat a sequence of numbers in the correct order.
7. Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS): A comprehensive test that evaluates a range of cognitive functions, including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.

Family involvement in stroke rehabilitation/caregiver management for stroke

Family involvement in stroke rehabilitation can be crucial for the recovery and well-being of the stroke survivor. Here are some ways in which family members can be involved:

1. Education and Training: Family members can receive education and training on stroke rehabilitation and the care of the stroke survivor. This can include information on physical therapy exercises, medication management, and communication strategies.
2. Emotional Support: Family members can provide emotional support to the stroke survivor, which can help with the recovery process. This can include providing encouragement, listening to the stroke survivor’s concerns, and providing reassurance.
3. Assistance with Daily Living Activities: Family members can assist with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, which can be challenging for stroke survivors.
4. Communication Support: Family members can help the stroke survivor with communication by practicing speech exercises, using alternative communication methods such as gestures or writing, and helping the stroke survivor express their needs and desires.
5. Safety Support: Family members can assist with safety measures such as ensuring the stroke survivor’s environment is free of hazards, reminding the stroke survivor to take medications, and assisting with mobility devices.
6. Advocacy: Family members can advocate for the stroke survivor by communicating with healthcare professionals and ensuring that the stroke survivor receives the appropriate care and support.

Caregiver education for stroke

Caregiver education for stroke is an important aspect of stroke rehabilitation, as it provides caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the physical, emotional, and social challenges of caring for a stroke survivor. Here are some key areas of caregiver education for stroke:

1. Understanding Stroke: Caregivers should be provided with information on the causes and effects of stroke, including the physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that can occur. This can help caregivers better understand the needs of the stroke survivor and provide appropriate care and support.
2. Rehabilitation: Caregivers should receive education on the rehabilitation process, including the different types of therapies and exercises that can be used to help the stroke survivor recover. Caregivers should also be taught how to assist with therapy and exercise programs at home.
3. Medication Management: Caregivers should be educated on the medications that the stroke survivor is taking, including their purpose, dosage, and potential side effects. Caregivers should also be taught how to manage medication schedules and handle potential medication-related emergencies.
4. Communication Strategies: Caregivers should be taught how to communicate effectively with the stroke survivor, including how to use non-verbal cues, speak slowly and clearly, and use simple language. Caregivers should also be taught how to handle communication difficulties that can arise after a stroke.
5. Safety Measures: Caregivers should be educated on safety measures to prevent falls, manage mobility issues, and prevent other potential hazards in the stroke survivor’s environment. Caregivers should also be taught how to handle emergencies and when to seek medical attention.
6. Emotional Support: Caregivers should be provided with information on how to provide emotional support to the stroke survivor, including how to handle depression, anxiety, and other emotional changes that can occur after a stroke.

How can cognitive impairment be prevented?

Preventing cognitive impairment involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and engaging in activities that promote brain health. Here are some strategies:

1. Regular Exercise: Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, promotes the growth of new brain cells, and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
2. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential nutrients that support brain function. Mediterranean-style diets, which emphasize fish, olive oil, and nuts, have been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline.
3. Mental Stimulation: Keeping the brain active through activities such as reading, puzzles, learning new skills, and socializing can help maintain cognitive function and build cognitive reserve.
4. Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep can impair cognitive function and contribute to cognitive decline over time. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support brain health.
5. Stress Management: Chronic stress can have negative effects on the brain, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies.
6. Social Engagement: Maintaining social connections and participating in meaningful social activities can help preserve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
7. Brain-Healthy Habits: Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can also help prevent cognitive impairment.
8. Regular Health Check-ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help identify and manage any health conditions that may affect cognitive function, such as hypertension, diabetes, or depression.
9. Cognitive Training: Engaging in activities specifically designed to challenge and stimulate cognitive function, such as brain training exercises or cognitive therapy, may help maintain cognitive abilities as you age.
10. Protecting the Brain: Taking precautions to prevent head injuries, such as wearing a seatbelt in the car and using protective gear during sports activities, can help protect the brain from damage that could contribute to cognitive impairment.