Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Question 1

what type of disorder is MS

Answer 1

degenerative of the CNS

Question 2

how is MS characterized

Answer 2

disseminated demyelination of nerve fibers of brain and spinal cord

Question 3

when do the symptoms occur

Answer 3

30-35; more progressive when diagnosed at age 50 or older

Question 4

what are the 3 pathologic processes that characterize MS

Answer 4

chronic inflammation; demyelination; gliosis (scarring) in the CNS

Question 5

is MS reversible

Answer 5

as the inflammation continues, myelin loses ability to regenerate

Question 6

first symptoms of MS

Answer 6

blurred vision, double vision; red-green color distortion; blindness in one eye

Question 7

common manifestations of MS

Answer 7

motor, sensory, cerebellar, and emotional problems

Question 8

motor manifestations of MS

Answer 8

weakness or paralysis of limbs (legs, arms), trunk, and head; spasticity (spasms) of muscles; scanning speech

Question 9

sensory manifestations of MS

Answer 9

numbness and tingling; pain, decreased hearing; vertigo and tinnitus; chronic neuropathic pain

Question 10

cerebellar manifestations of MS

Answer 10

nystagmus, ataxia, dysarthria, dysphagia

Question 11

what are some affected bowel and bladder functions from MS?

Answer 11

constipations; variable urinary problems- spastic and flaccid bladder

Question 12

what is needed for a diagnosis of MS

Answer 12

evidence of at least 2 inflammatory demyelinating lesions in at least 2 different locations within CNS

Question 13

how does exercise help a patient diagnosed with MS

Answer 13

decreases spasticity; increases coordination; retrains unaffected muscles to act for impaired ones

Question 14

priority problems for MS patients

Answer 14

impaired physical mobility; difficulty coping; urinary retention; lack of knowledge

Question 15

planning for MS

Answer 15

maximize neuromuscular function; maintain independence; manage fatigue; optimize psychosocial

Question 16

nursing implementations for MS

Answer 16

help patient identify triggers and develop ways to avoid them or decrease their effects; during acute exacerbation, prevent complications of immobility; focus teaching on building general resistance to illness (avoid fatigue, extremes of hot and cold, exposure to infection)