Parkinsons

Question 1

What are the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s?

Answer 1

tremors, rigidity, postural instability, little to no facial expressions, slowing of movement

Question 2

What are the causes of Parkinsons?

Answer 2

nerve break down/damage

Question 3

What is the pathophysiology of Parkinsons?

Answer 3

Basal ganglia compromised
Degeneration of nigrostriatal pathway
Leads to reduction of neurotransmitter dopamine
Imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory neural motor pathways
Neurons change pigment colour and atrophy
Impairment to extrapyramidal tracts controlling complex body movement
Tremors, bradykinesia, rigidity, postural instability

Question 4

What are some nursing interventions and rationale of Parkinsons?

Answer 4

Administer levodopa as prescribed - to reduce the symptoms
Position upright- to promote gas exchange and optimise lung expansion
Administer O2 as prescribed - to reduce the risk of hypoxia
Speak slowly to the patient - to ensure that they understand
Develop a therapeutic relationship - to allow the patient to gain trust