Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) Flashcards
Define the term CVA.
Reduction of cerebral blood flow and oxygen causing brain cell damage
The three most common causes of CVA are____?
Embolism, hemorrhage, thrombus
What are the signs of a CVA
Client complains of headache,
nausea, nuchal rigidity, HTN, slow bounding pulse, Cheyne-Stokes respirations, Speech change facial droop
What is the difference between CVA and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
TIA is a temporary period of neurological deficit. It has similar signs as a CVA, but the symptom will all resolve
What is agnosia?
Inability to use an object correctly
Expressive aphasia occurs when_____
Client cannot communicate properly ( aphasia can be expressive or receptive)
If the left hemisphere is affected you will see weakness on the ____ side
Right
If the right hemisphere is affected, you will see weakness on the ____ side
Left
Remember to place the clients belongings on the ____ side
Unaffected
The test used to determine a CVA are?
CT, EEG, and cerebral arteriography
What are the nursing assessments?
Monitor vital signs, neuro checks, watch for seizures, monitor for increase in cranial pressure, check ability to swallow
What complication of the eyes can a client with a CVA have?
Corneal abrasions because Lacrimal glands will not produce secretions
What is the activity level for this client
Strict bed rest
How should the room environment be?
Quiet, peaceful, with objects within reach on unaffected side
How do you position the CVA client?
Turn q two hours on unaffected side, 20 minutes on affected side make sure to elevate affected extremities
