Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Question 1

ALS

Answer 1

progressive, invariably fatal neurological disease that attacks motor neurons (controls voluntary muscle movement)

Question 2

early manifestations of ALS

Answer 2

writing/typing difficulty, dropping things, tripping

Question 3

manifestations of ALS

Answer 3

fasciculation (twitching), cramping, muscle weakness, spasticity; fatigue and sleep disorders; slurred or nasal speech with difficulty forming words (dysarthria), drooling; overactive deep tendon reflex (hyperreflexia); pain

Question 4

what is the ultimate complication from ALS?

Answer 4

respiratory compromise

Question 5

what are some nursing interventions for ALS?

Answer 5

education; support; reduce aspiration risk; support respiratory function; decrease fall risk; administer medication to provide relief from excessive salivation, pain, muscle cramps, constipation and depression