Chapter 78

Question 0

MRI

Answer 0

a test that uses a powerful magnetic field to align hydrogen nuclei, which emit signals that are converted into precise images. An MRI can distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues in all parts of the body, even identifying chemical changes within cells

Question 1

CT scan

Answer 1

a test that incorporates x-rays and computer technology to produce an image of a transverse body plane

Question 2

PET

Answer 2

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a type of tomography used to study changes within the brain. Glucose containing a radioisotope is injected into the brain. After the scan, the client remains flat in bed for a few hours and is observed for signs of irritation, such as a stiff neck or pain when bending the head forward. The client is also observed for signs of anaphylaxis

Question 3

Cerebral angiography

Answer 3

an x-ray study of any blood vessel

Question 4

Cerebral arteriography

Answer 4

x-ray study of an artery.

Question 5

Myelography

Answer 5

A lumbar puncture is done, and a radiopaque substance is injected into the spinal, visualize spinal cord

Question 6

Brain scan

Answer 6

injection of a radioactive substance (radioisotope), which is then detected by a scanner that generates images as the substance circulates within the brain vasculature. This test is used to evaluate vascular lesions, neoplasms, abscesses, and areas of cerebrovascular ischemia.

Question 7

Electroencephalogram

Answer 7

Electroencephalography (EEG) records the brain’s electrical impulses as a graph. This test is used frequently in the diagnosis of seizure disorders, brain tumors, blood clots, infections, and sleep disorders. Another important use of the EEG is to confirm brain death (electrocerebral silence).

Question 8

Video telemetry

Answer 8

It involves video, audio, and EEG monitoring of a person 24 hours a day or all night. When the client experiences a seizure, it can be seen and heard on videotape as well as recorded electrically by EEG.

Question 9

Migraine

Answer 9

The specific cause of a migraine headache is not known, but it appears to result from a vascular disturbance in which the brain’s blood vessels dilate abnormally. Migraine headaches are also called vascular headache

Question 10

Cluster head ache

Answer 10

tend to occur in groups or clusters, often at night. As with migraines, they seem to result from vascular disturbances. These headaches can be severely disabling. They are more common in men than in women.

Question 11

Partial (focal) seizure

Answer 11

initially involves smaller, localized sections of the brain and might spread within seconds or minute involve widespread areas of the brain.

Question 12

General seizure

Answer 12

begins with involvement of both sides of the brain. Box 78-1 reviews the common names and categories of seizures. With unclassified seizures, the origin of the abnormal electrical activity is not known.

Question 13

Status epilepticus

Answer 13

medical emergency; convulsions with intense muscle contractions and dyspnea lasting 15 minutes or more

Question 14

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ALS

Answer 14

Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rapidly progressive, fatal neurologic disorder resulting in destruction of motor neurons of the cortex, brain stem, and spinal cord. Voluntary muscle movement gradually degenerates. ALS usually strikes between ages 50 and 70 years and affects more men than women.

Question 15

Brain abscess

Answer 15

collection of pus that may result from an infection of the ears, mastoid, sinus, or skull. It can also directly result from brain surgery. If left untreated, the encapsulated pus pocket eventually ruptures and spreads, causing further abscesses and meningitis, infection of the meninges

Question 16

Meningitis

Answer 16

inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms can cause meningitis. Brain damage, hearing loss, disabilities, and death are known to occur more often with bacterial meningitis than with viral meningitis.

Question 17

Encephalitis

Answer 17

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the white and gray matter of the brain. It may be associated with meningitis. Encephalitis is caused by a virus, bacteria, or chemicals (such as in lead poisoning). It is characterized by the destruction of nerve cells. It may follow vaccination or a viral infection, such as measles. Encephalitis seems to be more prevalent after influenza epidemics. Mosquitoes and ticks are common

Question 18

Guillian-barre syndrome

Answer 18

is an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system. It may also be called acute febrile, acute idiopathic, or infectious polyneuritis. In Guillain-Barré syndrome, antibodies start to destroy the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves. When the sheath is damaged, it cannot transmit nerve signals to the muscles. The muscles atrophy and become paralyzed. Paresthesia (tingling sensation) develops; the nerves cannot transmit sensory messages such as pain, heat, or texture.

Question 19

Post polio syndrome

Answer 19

muscle pain, worsening weakness of muscles, or paralysis. Postpolio syndrome is not contagious and victims do not spread the polio virus

Question 20

Acute transverse myelitis

Answer 20

Acute transverse myelitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord. It results from inflammation or destruction of the myelin of the spinal cord neurons. The person experiences impaired bowel and bladder function, generalized weakness of the extremities, and loss of sensation

Question 21

Craniotomy

Answer 21

Surgical entry into the skull (cranium) is called a craniotomy. This invasive procedure is performed for many reasons; one of the most common being a brain tumor. Any tumor near the brain is removed, when possible, because its growth would put pressure on the brain. A craniectomy is a procedure that removes a portion of skull bone.

Question 22

Concussion, skull fracture nurse care etc.

Answer 22

ICP: headache, dizziness, visual impairment, hearing loss, nausea, or clear or bloody drainage from the ears, nose, or
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mouth. Projectile (forceful) vomiting is indicative of brain injury. Also observe the client for changes in blood pressure and pupils. If the client is hospitalized, monitor LOC frequently, and note any personality or behavior changes.

Question 23

Normal ICP

Answer 23

4-13 mm/Hg