CSA Assessment Flashcards
1
Q
Why is a Neurological Assessment done?
A
To assess for disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves
2
Q
Indications that a Neurological assessment should be done?
A
- Loss of consciousness
- Post Fall
- Seizures
- Suspected head injury
3
Q
Pre-assessment considerations of things that may cause neurological changes in a patient
A
- Medications
- Cognitive impairment
- Alcohol
- Drugs
- Communication Barriers
4
Q
Things that can affect the findings of the motor response component of the assessment
A
- Medications
- Sedation
- Brain injury
- Comorbidities/pre-existing conditions
5
Q
Signs of Neurological compromise
A
- Unequal / unresponsive pupils
- F.A.S.T
Facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty - Movement abnormalities
Paralysis, seizure, tremor - Muscle tone abnormalities
Rigidity, Flaccidity, Spasticity - Gait abnormalities
Waddling - Abnormal postures
Decorticate, Decerebrate
6
Q
What is decorticate posture?
A
- Flexion of arms, wrists and fingers
- Extension, internal rotation and plantar flexion of lower extremities
7
Q
What is decerebrate posture?
A
- All 4 extremities are in rigid extension
- Hyperpronation of forearms and plantar extension of feet
8
Q
Why is a Neurovascular Assessment done?
A
- Detection of nerve damage and/or compartment syndrome
9
Q
What is compartment syndrome
A
- Potential complication of musculoskeletal trauma/surgery
10
Q
Indications that a Neurovascular assessment should be done?
A
- On report of altered sensation
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Spinal injury patients
- Patients with restrictive dressings/splints/casts
11
Q
Considerations of what can affect the outcomes of the assessment?
A
- Cognitive impairments
- Patients under sedation
-Decreased level of consciousness
12
Q
5 Ps of a neurovascular assessment?
A
- Pain
- Pallor
- Paraesthesia
- Pulse
- Paralysis
13
Q
Causes for unequal pupils?
A
- Hereditary
- lighting
- Medications
- Indication of cerebral injury
- Drugs
