Characteristics of a CVA

Question 1

Left Hemisphere

Answer 1

• Weakness, paralysis of the right side
• increased frustration, decreased processing
• possible aphasia (expressive, receptive, global)
• possible dysphagia
• possible motor apraxia (ideomotor and ideational)
• decreased discrimination between left and right
• right hemianopsia

Question 2

Right Hemisphere

Answer 2

• Weakness, paralysis of the left side
• decreased attention span
• left hemianopsia
• decreased awareness and judgement
• memory deficits
• left inattention; neglect
• decreased abstract reasoning
• emotional lability
• impulsive behaviors
• decreased spatial orientation
• Anosognosia; unaware of deficits

Question 3

Brainstem

Answer 3

• unstable vital signs
• decreased consciousness
• decreased ability to swallow
• weakness on both sides of the body
• paralysis on both sides of the body

Question 4

Cerebellum

Answer 4

• Decreased Balance
• Ataxia
• Decreased Coordination
• Nausea
• Decreased ability for postural adjustment
• nystagmus