3- Neurological Complications Flashcards
List 5 most common affected cranial nerves in TBI and how do they present. ππ
Olfactory nerve (CN I)
- Anosmia, apparent loss of taste and CSF rhinorrhea.
- Result in decrease in appetite, weight loss
- Sense of smell can warn one of potential dangers such as hazardous chemicals or fire.
Optic nerve (CN II)
- Complete blindness - Blurring of vision - Homonymous hemianopsia.
- Examine: funduscopic examination - visual field - visual acuity - pupillary reflex
Vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII)
- Loss of hearing
- Postural vertigo and nystagmus
EOM (CN IV > CN III > CN VI)
- Diplopia - loss of the pupillary response (βblown pupilβ) may signify uncal herniation.
Facial nerve (CN VII)
- Tactile sensation to the parts of the external ear
- Taste sensation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue
- Muscles of facial expression
- Salivary and lacrimal glands
What are 6 characteristics of frontal lobe dysfunction? ππ
π‘ Like ACA infarction, which is Acquired brain injury.
- Impaired concentration and executive function
- Lack of inhibition (socially inappropriate anger, agitation, aggression).
- Depression.
- Non-fluent aphasia (Broca or TCM)
- Gait apraxia
- Motor abnormalities (contralateral spastic paralysis legs > arms).
- Apathy/abulia (lack of initiation).
- Release of primitive reflexes (palmomental, suck, snout, rooting, glabellar).
- Incontinence bowel and bladder.
- Frontal eye field involvement β deviation of the eyes to the ipsilateral side
Adams and Victors principles of neurology, 2005, pg 395.
Clinical neurology 5th edition 2002. pg 13.
ERABI case study; http://www.abiebr.com/set/case-study-7/71-frontal-lobe-dysfunction.
Plantar Reflex (Babinski) Equivalents ππ MOCK
Fig. 43.2 (3 marks) ππ
Blue: Crescent-shaped subdural hematoma
Red: Lens-shaped epidural hematoma
Green: Subarachnoid hemorrhage within the sulci
Braddom 6th Edition Chapter 43 TBI pg927
List 4 complications of sub-arachnoid hemorrhage.
Just like stroke with bleeding inside raising ICP
- Sudden, transient LOC
- Focal neurologic deficits include CN3 or CN6 palsy
- Hemiparesis
- Aphasia (dominant hemisphere)
- Seizures/epilepsy.
- Vasospasm (secondary ischemia).
- Hydrocephalus
- Increase ICP
- Brain herniation
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 1 Stroke pg18
Canadian Head CT Rule 5 marks π
List 4 Advantages to use CT & MRI in TBI patient
ADVANTAGES OF CT
- Rapid, reliable & convenience
- Relatively low cost
- Detects facial and skull fractures
- Detect mass lesions requiring immediate surgical intervention.
DISADVANTAGES OF CT
- Poor in identifying nonhemorrhagic lesions
- Poor corelation with neurological outcome
ADVANTAGES OR MRI
- Good for non Hge lesions
- Defining the lesions and extent of injury
- Guiding treatment options
- Prognostication of lesions in small structures such as the brainstem and for DAI.
DISADVANTAGES OR MRI
- Time consuming (45 vs. 5 minutes)
- Does not really affect early decision-making
- Foreign bodies or implanted devices maybe inside the patient
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg71
Uncal herniation Location & List 5 sings ππ
LOCATION
Medial Temporal Lobe
SIGNS
1- Stretching of the CN 3 (oculomotor nerve)
Ipsilateral fixed pupil dilation, ptosis, and ophthalmoplegia
2- Ipsilateral hemiparesis
Pressure on the corticospinal tract located in the contralateral crus cerebri
3- Contralateral hemiparesis
Pressure on the precentral motor cortex or the internal capsule
4- Reduced consciousness
5- Central hyperventilation (Cheyne-stokes respirations)
6- Bilateral decerebration
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg74
Greenberg textbook, pg 161-162.
When is ET intubation indicated? One caution?
ET intubation
- Comatosed GCS β€ 9
Benefits
- Desaturation to maintain oxygenation
- Airway protection is indicated in patients with GCS <9
- Correction of hypoxia
Caution
- Cervical spine injury (avoiding neck manipulation/hard cervical collars) in patients with severe TBI or those with a high index of suspicion for spine trauma.
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI
List 4 Indication for surgical management in TBI & 2 surgical options ππ
Indication
- Penetrating injury
- Compound depressed skull fracture
- Epidural hematoma > 30 cc in volume (1 oz)
- Subdural hematoma > 1cm thickness (1 cm)
- Focal contusion or intracerebral hemorrhage
- Midline shift > 5mm.
Surgical operations
- Craniotomy
- Emergency Burr Hole
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg73
Brain injury medicine textbook pg 272-273.
List 4 preventive measures to be implemented in newly admitted TBI ππ
- Manage bowel and bladder function
- Maintain nutrition
- Maintain skin integrity
- Control spasticity
- Prevent contractures
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg61
What are the different time frame of epilepsy/seizure post TBI?ππ EXAM 2021
CLASSIFICATION
1. Immediate Post Traumatic Seizure (Immediate PTS)
Single or recurrent seizure after TBI within the first 24 hours post-injury
Treat for 7 days
2. Early Post Traumatic Seizure (Early PTS)
Occurs within the first week (24 hours to 7 days) β Treat for 1 year
3. Late Post Traumatic Seizure (Late PTS) or Post Traumatic Epilepsy (PTE)
Occurs after the first week β Treat for 2+ years
STATUS EPILIPTICUS
- More than 5 minutes of continuous seizure activity
- Two or more seizures, without full recovery of consciousness between seizures.
Cuccorollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg74
ERABI Module 7 pg3 & pg9
List 6 risk factors for late post-traumatic seizures after TBI (late seizures).ππ EXAM 2021
- Prolonged coma or PTA (>24 hours): 35%
- Depressed skull fracture: 3% to 70%
- Penetrating head injury: 33% to 50%
- Intracranial hematoma: 25% to 30%
- Early PTS (>24 hours to 7 days): 25%
- Age
- Presence of foreign bodies
- Focal neurological deficits (aphasia, hemiplegia)
- Alcohol abuse
- Use of TCAs
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg75
Why penetrating injuries increase the risk of post-traumatic seizures?
They result of abnormal electrophysiological activity in the brain at the site of injury.
ERABI Module 7 pg7
List 6 complications of post-traumatic seizures.ππ
PATIENT
- Accidental injuries
- Loss of driving privileges
- Status epilepticus
- Death
RECOVERY & FUNCTION
- Deterioration in functional status
- Deterioration in cognitive status
- Negative impact on neurological recovery
ERABI Model 7 pg10
TBI patient is seizing, what could be your differential diagnosis?
BRAIN
- Hydrocephalus
- Mass occupying lesions (hemorrhage, abscess)
- Encephalitis/meningitis
BODY
- Sepsis/fever
ELECTROLYTE
- Electrolyte abnormalities (Na, Mg, Ca)
- Hypoglycemia
ORGAN FAILURE
- Uremia
- Hepatic encephalopathy
TOXIC
- Alcohol, Cocaine, Ecstasy, Amphetamines
- High dose Caffeine
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Narcotics
ERABI Module 7 pg11
TBI patient developed first episode of seizure. List 3 investigations to be done.
- EEG
- Prolactin level: β prolactin level confirms true seizure activity, but normal level does not ruleout seizure activity
- Brain MRI
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 pg76
ERABI Module 7 pg13
TBI patient developed seizure for one minute 2 hours after injury. What medication you would start and for how long? ππ MOCK
π‘ Important to remember that all anticonvulsants may cause some degree of sedation and cognitive deficits (usually psychomotor slowing).
PROPHYLAXIS
- Phenytoin, valproic acid (Depakene) or carbamazepine (Tegretol) for 1 week
- Levetiracetam (Keppra) is as effective as phenytoin
WHEN TO STOP
- After 1 week, seizure free
RESTART
- Evidence of late PTS
WHEN TO STOP AGAIN
- After a 2-year, seizure-free interval
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg76 & 78
ERABI Module 7 pg13
Surgical Interventions for the Prevention and Treatment of PTS
- Surgical excision of PTS focus
- Vagus Nerve Stimulator
- Deep brain stimulation of the thalamic anterior nucleus
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg79
ERABI Module 7 pg16
What lab investigations are required when initiating phenytoin and levetiracetam?
π‘ All medications start with simple admission profile: CBC, RFT, LFT.
Phenytoin:
- CBC
- BUN/Cr.
- Liver enzymes
- Phenytoin level
Levetiracetam:
- BUN/Cr
What are the side effects of Levetiracetam (keppra)? ππ
π‘ Body organs: Brain - cerebellum - eyes - muscle - heart
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Headache
- Somnolence (Drowsiness or Sleepiness)
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Ataxia
- Diplopia
https://reference.medscape.com/drug/keppra-spritam-levetiracetam-343013#4
What are the features of phenytoin toxicity? ππ
- Ataxia
- Nystagmus
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Neuropathy
- Movement disorders
- SA/AV nodal block
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
ERABI Module 7 pg19
Why TBI patient develop Ventriculomegaly? 2 marks. ππ
- Cerebral atrophy and focal infarction of brain tissue
- CSF absorption limited by blood products, protein, or fibrosis leading to ventricular dilatation
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg79
List 3 classical manifestations of hydrocephalus in TBI patient
CT findings and how to manage? ππ
Treatment for β ICP
Acute:
- Headache, nausea, vomiting, and lethargy.
- Change in mental status (confusion, drowsiness).
Chronic:
- Incontinence
- Ataxia/gait disturbance
- Dementia.
- Worsen or fail to progress adequately.
CT Findings
- Periventricular lucency
- Sulcal effacement
- Uniform ventricular dilation
Treatment
- Lumbar puncture
- Shunting
Management for β ICP
- Avoid flat, supine position; instead, elevate head of bed to 30Β°.
- Hyperventilation should be used with caution because it reduces brain tissue PO2.
- Hyperosmolar therapy with mannitol
- Furosemide/acetazolamide may also be used
- Neurosurgical decompression
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg79 & Chapter 1 pg23
Define Agitation, List 4 components of Agitation, Lobe location ππ
Agitation
- Subtype of delirium occurring during the state of PTA
- Most commonly occurs with frontotemporal lesions, which coordinate arousal, attention, executive control, memory, and limbic behavioral functions
Characterized by:
- Aggression Ω Ψ΄Ψ§ΨΉΨ± Ψ§ΩΨΊΨΆΨ¨ Ψ£Ω Ψ§ΩΩΨ±Ψ§ΩΩΨ© Ψ§ΩΨͺΩ ΨͺΨ€Ψ―Ω Ψ₯ΩΩ Ψ³ΩΩΩ ΨΉΨ―Ψ§Ψ¦Ω Ψ£Ω ΨΉΩΩΩ
- Akathisia Ψ§ΩΨ£Ψ±Ω Ψ§ΩΨΨ±ΩΩ
- Disinhibition ΨΉΨ―Ω Ψ§ΩΩΨ―Ψ±Ψ© ΨΉΩΩ Ω ΩΨΉ Ψ§ΩΨ³ΩΩΩ ΨΊΩΨ± Ψ§ΩΩΨ§Ψ¦Ω
- Emotional lability ΨͺΨΊΩΩΨ±Ψ§Ψͺ Ω Ψ¨Ψ§ΩΨΊ ΩΩΩΨ§ ΩΩ Ψ§ΩΩ Ψ²Ψ§Ψ¬
Agitation is often accompanied by (same picture + GOAT)
- Disorientation
- Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA)
- Disinhibition
- Aggression
- Akathisia
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg80
ERABI Module 5 pg8
List 4 possible differential diagnosis for agitations ππ (OSCE Q) A case of TBI agitation with normal electrolytes β list 6 other causes. What to rule out in patient with agitation?
- Drug withdrawal
- Delirium tremens (DTs)
- Infection
- Pain
- Hypoxia
- Seizure disorder
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg84
- Noxious stimuli (pain).
- Environmental (overstimulation).
- Medical conditions:
- Infections: Systemic, encephalitis, meningitis, abscess, tertiary syphilis.
- Endocrine: Hypothyroidism, hypo/hypercortisolism, hyperparathyroidism
- Seizures:Ictal or post-ictal
- Vascular: Stroke, TIA, hypoperfusion, hypoxemia, SDH, etc.
- Medications & drugs
- Structural: Hydrocephalus, stroke, intracranial bleed, etc.
- Mood disorders.
Flash cards
- Severe medical illness
- electrolyte disturbance,
- anxiety and depression
What is the most commonly abused substance following an ABI?
Alcohol
ERABI Module 5 pg8
What is the normal duration of agitation? ππ (OSCE Q)
- Majority of patients with agitation recover completely in three week to three months.
- Agitation is considered a normal phase of recovery in acute period (14 days) following a moderate to severe ABI
- Strongly associated with frontal lobe lesions.
ERABI Module 5 pg8
List two assessments for agitation and their results ππ
π‘ MMSE 18-23
Agitated Behavior Scale (14-56) β 21,28,35
- Below 21: normal
- 22 to 28: mild agitation β non-pharmacologcial measures
- 29 to 35: moder ate agitation β pharmacological measures
- 35 to 54: severe agitation β restrain?
Rancho Los Amigos (RLA) Scale
- Agitation: Level IV Confused and agitated behavior.
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg68
Braddom 6th Edition Chapter 43 Traumatic Brain Injury pg930
First-Line Interventions for Posttraumatic Agitation ππ
Environmental Management of Posttraumatic Agitation
-
Reduce the level of stimulation in the environment
- Remove noxious stimuli if possible
- Reduction of lines/direct restraints
- Scheduled toileting program
- Place patient in quiet, private room
- Limit unnecessary sounds and visitors
-
Protect patient from harming self or others
- Place patient in a floor bed with padded side panels (Craig bed).
- Assign 1:1 or 1:2 sitter to observe patient and ensure safety
-
Reduce patientβs cognitive confusion
- One person speaking to patient at a time
- Minimize contact with unfamiliar staff
-
Tolerate restlessness when possible
- Allow patient to pace around unit with 1:1 supervision.
- Allow confused patient to be verbally inappropriate
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg81 Table 2-11
What medications can be used to treat life-threatening aggression following an ABI? ππ
What medications can be used to treat non life-threatening aggression following an ABI? ππ
Which medications should be minimized in treatment of aggressive/agitated behaviour? ππ
LIFE THREATENING
1- Short Acting Intramuscular Benzodiazepines
GABA receptor agonists (CNS Depressant)
Lorazepam (Ativan) - Midazolam
S/E May cause paradoxical agitation in the elderly & impaired motor recovery
2- Oral Atypical Antipsychotic
Dopamin 2 receptor antagonist
Quetiapine (Seroquel): Start 50mg bed time or 25mg BID, max 800mg in 3 doses
S/E QT prolongation, Dizziness, Extrapyramidal Sx, Fatigue, Anticholenergic
Risperidone (Risperdal): 0.25mg BID to 2-8 mg/day once daily or divided q12hr
S/E Insomnia, Anxiety, Headache, Agitation, Parkinsonism, Akathisia
NON-LIFE THREATENING
1- Propranolol (420-520mg/day)
S/E Hypotension, Anxiety, Sleepiness, Insomnia
2- Anticonvulsants β pain and sleep
Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Valproic acid (Depakene), Gabapentin (Neurontin)
S/E Sedation, Fatigue, Weight gain, Nausea, Edema
3- TCA: Amitriptyline β mood and sleep
S/E Anticholeregic: Urine retention, constipation, dry eyes and mouth, dizziness
4- Dopamenergic β arousal or attention
Amantadine and Methylphenidate
S/E Hallucinations, Insomnia, Anxiety, Headache, Nausea
TO AVOID
- Benzodiazepines
- Typical antipsychotic agents (haloperidol)
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg82-84
Youβve asked to transfer agitated patient. Do you accept him? Why? ππ EXAM
We canβt accept the patient
- May harm himself
- May deteriorate
- Will not benefit from rehabilitation at the current state.
What is the definition of a restraint? What types of restraints exist? EXTRA BONUS
Chemical restraints
Beta blockers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, psychostimulants, propranolol, neuroleptics, valproic acid, and anti-Parkinsonβs agents
Physical restraints
Bed rails, feeding trays, hand tying, chest straps, seat belts, ankle/wrist restraints, and jacket restraints
ERABI Module 5 pg26
What is the difference between typical and atypical antipsychotics?ππ
Atypicals are less likely to cause motor side effects than typicals:
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Parkinsonism
- Dystonia
- Akathisia
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg82
What medications are recommended impaired arousal or attention? ππ
What medications are recommended for learning and memory deficits? ππ
Arousal & Attension
- Amantadine: 100 mg orally twice a day, Max dose: 400 mg/day
- Methylphenidate: 20 to 30 mg orally in 2 or 3 divided doses, Max dose: 60 mg/day
- Bromocriptine
Learning and memory deficits
- Donepezil (Aricept): 5-10mg starting dose
ERABI Module 6
What cognitive and behavioral changes are commonly seen in TBI?
Cognitive
- Attention
- Memory
Behavioral
- Disinhibition (anger - violence)
- Impulsive
PMR Secrets 3rd Edition Chapter 53 pg 437 Q18
Which neurotransmitter is thought to be highly important for:
- Memory 2. Attention 3. Mood 4. Arousal
- Acetylcholine Ψ²ΩΨ§ΩΩ Ψ±
- Norepinephrine Ψ§ΩΨͺΨ¨Ψ§Ω
- Serotonin Ψ³ΨΉΨ§Ψ―Ψ©
- Dopamine Ψ§Ψ«Ψ§Ψ±Ψ©
List 4 dopaminergic and 2 non-dopaminergic medications to be used in TBI patient. ππ
π‘ Amani leaving to the prom for myth to improve mood & memory.
Dopaminergic β Alterness, Arousal
- Amantadineβincreases EXOGENOUS dopamine
- Levadopa/carbidopaβincreases EXOGENOUS dopamine
- Bromocriptineβincreases ENDOGENOUS dopamine
- Methylphenidateβblocks reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine
Non-Dopaminergic
- Antidepressants (TCA, SSRI, SNRI) for Mood & Sleep
- Anticholinesterase: Donepezil (Aricept) for Memory & Attention
Cuccurollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg62 & 93
What is Executive functions? Location in brain.
Executive functions
- Complex processes, such as goal setting and execution, decision making, human adjustment, problem solving, and long-term planning.
Location
- Prefrontal cortex (medial prefrontal network & dorsolateral prefrontal network)
ERABI Module 2 pg7
List 2 test for cognitive function and their figures ππ
-
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
- β€25 out of 30 indicates impairment
-
Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) βABS is 21,28,35β
- 18-23 mild cognitive impairment
- 0-17 severe cognitive impairment
ERABI Module 2 pg11
Intervention for Attention, Concentration and Information Processing Speed.
Non-Pharmacological
- Dual-Task Interventions
- Computer-based programs and virtual reality
- Goal Management Training
Pharmacological
- Methylphenidate twice a day with a total daily dosage of 20-30mg, max 60mg per day
What pharmacological interventions are recommended for the remediation of executive function following an ABI?
None. Unfortunately, there are no pharmacological interventions which have consistently shown improvement of executive function in the ABI literature.
ERABI Module 2 pg26
How to deal with schooling after TBI? ππ (OSCE Teenager with mTBI)
- Frequent breaks
- Reduced workload
- Modified assignments
- Additional time to complete assignments
- Preferential seating in the classroom
- Reduced auditory stimulation
- Reduced visual stimulation.
What are the three stages of memory?
-
Encoding
- Integration of hearing, vision, verbals, and personal experiences and information through cognitive mechanisms
-
Consolidation
- Creating interactions between the cortex, the limbic system, more specifically the hippocampus
-
Retrieval
- Process of accessing these memories through either recognition or recall.
ERABI Model 2 pg5
List 4 brain structures involved in memory. ππ
- Mammillary body (general memory).
- Fornix (carries signals from hippocampus to mammillary bodies and septal nuclei).
- Hippocampus (spatial learning, declarative learning, explicit memory).
- Dentate gyrus (new memory formation).
- Parahippocampal gyrus (spatial memory).
- Amygdala (emotional memory).
Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limbic_system
What are the only two pharmacological interventions supported by the ABI literature for learning and memory deficits? What are their recommended daily dosages? ππ
- Donepezil (Aricept), 5-10 mg/day
- Rivastigmine, starting dosage of 1.5 mg/day, maintenance at 3-6 mg/day.
ERABI Module 2 pg25
Intervention for Learning and Memory π
NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL:
Internal
- Verbal and visual cuing
- Visual imagery.
- Self-imagination
- Self-talk
- Memory training: learning to βchunkβ information, memory games, mnemonics.
- Repeated Practice
- Retrieval Practice
External
- Memory aids: computer, pager, diaries, agendas, calendars, family members, photos.
PHARMACOLOGICAL:
- Donepezil (Aricept)
- Physostigmine: memory in men with TBI.
- Improve attention: Amantadine, methylphenidate.
EBRSR module 12 pg 34; ERABI module 12 pg 96; ERABI Module 2 pg23
Mention 3 Anxiety Disorder associated with post-ABI
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ERABI Module 3
List 2 assessment tools help in diagnosis for mood and behavioral disorders following an ABI?
- Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9)
- Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
What pharmacological interventions are recommended for the treatment of anxiety following an ABI?
SSRIs (Prozac, Cipralex), are the only pharmacological intervention recommended for the treatment of anxiety following an ABI.
ERABI Module 5 pg23
How is fatigue defined? How is it classified? ππ
Fatigue
- Feelings of physical and/or mental exhaustion during or after usual activities
- Feelings of inadequate energy to begin activities.
ERABI Module 13 pg4 & pg8
TBI patient in the clinic c/o fatigue.
Take history of fatigue and manage it ππ
OSCE Dr. Nasser
Sign & Symptoms of Fatigue
-
PHYSICAL
- Lack of energy, weakness, or light headedness
- Yawning
- Nodding off or head drooping
-
MENTAL
- Difficulty concentrating
- Making mistakes on well-practiced tasks
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Poor decision makine
-
PSYCHOLOGICAL
- Lack of motivation
- Irritable
Causes of Fatigue (Table)
OSCE was RLS & Management
1) Iron correction 2) Dopaminergic agents, Anticonvulsants, Benzodiazepines
ERABI Module 13 Fatigue
Management of Fatigue ππ List 6 elements of sleep hygiene include ππ
Non-Pharma
- Conserving energy and pacing: Prioritize their commitments & plan important activities when they feel they are at their best
- Exercise: Start with aerobic exercise for cardiovascular health, general well-being, emotional and immune system functioning.
- Sleep hygiene
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Lifestyle management: Adaptive coping, goal management, healthy diet and self care for emotional, physical, and mental health
- Light Therapy: expose to a short wavelength light (430-475 nm; blue wavelength light) upon awakening to alter melatonin production and secretion leading to increased daytime alertness and earlier onset of evening sleep
Sleep Hygiene
- Going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, including weekends
- Avoiding naps, or taking naps for no longer than 20 minutes if necessary
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol and nicotine
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding heavy exercise and heavy meals for several hours before bedtime
- Keeping bedroom quiet, dark, and at a comfortable temperature
- Keeping stress and work out of the bedroom
- No TV or computer while in bed
- If unable to sleep, donβt lie in bed; get up and do a relaxing activity for a short while
Pharma (Dopamenergic)
- Methylphenidate
- Modafinil
ERABI Module 13 pg13 & Module 7
List 4 causes of poor sleep in TBI ππ
- Pain
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Restless leg syndrome β OSCE station
- Trauma damaging reticular activating system (RAS) affecting sleep-awake cycle
- Fatigue
DeLisa 5th Edition Chapter 24 TBI pg595
PMR Secrets 3rd Edition Chapter 53 TBI pg437
What are the three most common sleep disorders following an ABI?
- Insomnia
- Sleep apnea
- Hypersomnia
ERABI Module 13 pg17
Patient with poor sleep quality. What would the adverse effect on rehab sessions?
- Easily distracted and unable to focus on more than one task at a time
- Rapid mental fatigue and may require frequent breaks
- Complain of fatigue or frequently ask to return to their room or bed
- Rest-seeking behaviors such as excessive time in bed, frequent naps, and inactivity
- Asleep mid-task during a therapy session or require frequent cues to remain awake
- Alterations in circadian rhythms, sleep patterns, and sleep quality.
List some methods to improve sleep quality ππ
Non-Pharma
- Sleep restriction (fewer naps during the day)
- Sleep hygiene (turning off television or other sources of stimulation near bedtime)
- Relaxation Strategies (warm footbath)
- Lifestyle Management Strategies
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Regular Exercise
- Light Therapy
- Blood draws could be rescheduled to maximize uninterrupted sleep.
- Alterations in therapy schedule may improve arousal and provide rest breaks at times of day when arousal is low.
Pharma
- Melatonin 0.5-1mg night time up to 5-10mg
- Tricyclic antidepressants: Amytriptalin 25mg night time
- Modafinil 100-200mg morning to improve circadian rhythm
ERABI Module 7
How do you approach and manage sleeping disorder in any patient? Management of Insomnia, Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and Sleep apnea ππ
INSOMNIA
β₯3 nights per week for β₯3 months
Causes: - Advanced age - Psychological factors - Lifestyle behaviours - sleep apnea
Medications: Psychostimulants, anticonvulsants, antidepressants
Medical: Growth hormone deficiency, hyperthyroidism
Treatment
- CBT
- Sleep hygiene
- Regular exercise
- Avoid caffeine, other CNS stimulants
- Melatonin
- Tricyclic antidepressants
CIRCADIAN RYTHM
Causes: Lifestyle habits - Advanced age - Environment or occupation
Medications: CNS depressants or stimulants
Treatment
- Sleep hygiene
- Light therapy
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME
β₯ 3 months and occurring β₯3 nights per week
Causes: akathisia, periphral neuropathy, iron deficiency
Medications: antihistamines, dopamine antagonists such as anti-emetics or antipsychotics, lithium, antidepressants such as SSRIs and TCAs, substances (caffeine)
Treatment
- Iron supplementation
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol
- Exercise program
- Dopamine agonists
- Gabapentin
SLEEP APNEA
β₯15 obstructions per hour of sleep.
Causes: central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, and sleep-related hypoventilation
Others: Excess weight - Chronic nasal congestion - Smoking - Diabetes - Asthma - Hypertension
Treatment
- Morning modafinil
- CPAP
- Sleep specialist refferal
HYPEROSMIA
Medications: CNS depressants, opioids or other pain medications, anticonvulsants, anti-emetics, antihistamines, antidepressants, anxiolytics, beta-blockers, anti-spasticity medications, muscle relaxants
Others: hypothyroidism - sleep apnea
Treatment
- Modafinil
- Re-evaluate contributory medications
ERABI Module 13 pg25
Common signs and symptoms of depression following an Acquired Brain Injury. ππ
At least 2 of the following core for the last two weeks:
- Depressed mood: feeling low, sad, or hopeless
- Lethargy: reduced energy/ increased fatiguability
- Anhedonia/loss of pleasure and interest
In addition:
- Ideas of guilt, unworthiness and failure
- Disturbances in sleep
- Diminished appetite.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Social withdrawal.
ERABI Model 5
- Reduced self-esteem and self-confidence
- Bleak and pessimistic view of the future
ICD 10
Pharmacological treatments which have been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression specifically in those with an ABI.
π‘ We want to increase both dopamin and seratonin.
- Methylphenidate (Dopamenergic)
- Citalopram (SSRI): start at 10mg, and increase to a daily dose of 20-40mg.
ERABI Module 5 pg21
Types of Post-traumatic Seizure (PTS) ππ
π‘ Majority of PTS are simple partial
-
Partial seizure
- Simple partial, preserved consciousness
- Complex partial, impaired consciousness
-
Generalized seizure
- Grand mal or tonicβclonic
Cuccorollo 4th Edition Chapter 2 TBI pg74
ERABI Module 7 pg3 & pg9
Incidence of post traumatic seizure? π