Neurology Flashcards
What is the autonomic nervous system?
Looks after the unconsciously controlled systems in the body. It is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.
What does the sympathetic nervous system control?
Increase HR Increase vascular resistance Increase BP Increased RR Increase blood supply to muscles. Pupil dilation Bronchiole dilation
What are the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system?
Decrease heart rate
Dilating blood vessels
Decrease blood pressure
Decrease RR
What is the definition of a stroke?
Stroke is when there is a cessation of oxygen supply to the brain. Can be caused by a clot or a haemorrhage.
What are the 3 sub categories for ischemic stroke?
Thrombosis: similar to the formation of AMI thrombus
Embolism: a clot forms in a proximal artery and lodges in a distal artery
Hypo perfusion: decreased perfusion leads to reduction in blood flow to brain.
What is a TIA?
A neurological that self resolves within 24hrs. Is often a prodrome for thrombotic stroke.
What are the 4 types of haemorrhagic stroke?
Intracerebral: bleeding directly into the brain from the small arterioles.
Epidural: haemorrhage between dura mater and skull.
Subdural: between surface of brain and dura leading to slow onset of symptoms (up to 2 weeks)
Sub arachnoid: haemorrhage beneath the arachnoid layer.
Describe the layers of the Meninges and their purpose.
The meninges are the 3 membranes the envelope the brain. Consisting of the dura mater, arachnoid, and Pia mater. Purpose is to protect the central nervous system.
What are some clinical signs of a CVA?
Headache Facial droop Slurred speech Unequal pupils Altered conscious state Aspasia/ dysphasia Visual disturbance Confusion Unilateral paralysis
What are some stroke mimics?
Alcohol intoxication Epilepsy/ post ictal Insulin: hypo/hyperglycaemia Overdose Underdose/ uraemia Brain tumour/ trauma Infection Psychosis Migraine
How can we aim to reduce the risk of secondary brain injury?
Prevent hypovolaemia Prevent hypotension Prevent hypertension Prevent hypo/hyperventilation Prevent vomiting and nausea
What is the lucid interval?
Pt can be hit on head and walk around and then become unconscious later on. This is due to the secondary brain injury caused by increase ICP. The lucid interval is the time between the accident and the loss of consciousness.
What are the components of the mental health assessment?
ABS MR PTTC
Appearance Behaviour Speech Mood Response Perception Thought content Thought flow Concentration
