Chapter 44 - Sensory Functioning Flashcards
Sensory Stimulation
Reception
Perception
Arousal Mechanism
Conditions of the Sensory Experience
Stimulus
Receptor
Nerve impulse
Sensation
Reception
Process of receiving data through the senses (Visual, Auditory, Olfactory, Gustatory, and Tactile)
Stereognosis
Kinesthesia
Visceral
Perception
Conscious process of selecting, organizing, and interpreting data from the senses into meaningful information
Arousal-The Reticular Activating System
Sensoristasis-Optimal arousal state
RAS mediates arousal
Receives all the input from the sensory nerves and selectively allows certain impulses to reach the cerebral cortex and be perceived
Adaptation
States of Arousal/Awareness
Conscious states Delirium Dementia Confusion Awake and aware Somnolence Chronic vegetative state Unconscious states Asleep Lethargic Stupor Coma Glasgow Coma Scale (eye opening, motor response, verbal response) Max points is 15, < 7 defines coma
Factors Affecting States of Awareness
Inadequate blood flow Altered nutrition and metabolism Fluid and electrolyte imbalances Infectious processes Inadequate sleep and rest Inability to organize incoming stimuli Dementia Sensory alterations and sensory deficits
Sensory Deprivation
↓ environmental stimuli
Impaired ability to receive environmental stimuli
Inability to process environmental stimuli
Manifestations of Sensory Deprivation
Physical behaviors Escape behaviors Changes in perception Changes in cognitive behaviors Changes in affective behaviors
Effects of Sensory Deprivation
Perceptual responses
Cognitive responses
Emotional responses
Nursing Interventions for Sensory
Deprivation Visual stimulation Auditory stimulation Gustatory stimulation Olfactory stimulation Tactile stimulation Cognitive input Emotional input Cultural considerations
Sensory Overload
↑ internal stimuli
↑ external stimuli
Inability perceptually to disregard or selectively ignore some stimuli
Manifestations of Sensory Overload
Similar to those observed in sensory deprivation
Elderly and CVA patients often experience confusion or agitation
Nursing Interventions for Sensory Overload
Provide consistent pattern of stimulation
Speak calmly / simple explanation
Establish a schedule for routine care
Identify distressing stimuli
Reduce and eliminate stimuli (be careful not to cause sensory deprivation)
Provide periods of rest
Cultural considerations
Sensory Deficits
Impaired or absent functioning in one or more senses
May be reversed or permanent
Nursing Interventions