Neurovascular assessment

Question 1

What is the neurovascular system

Answer 1

Structure and function of the vascular system and nervous system in combination.
Regulates the blood-brain barrier permeability and cerebral blood flow.
Involved in normal functioning and information processing.

Question 2

What is neurovascular compromise

Answer 2

Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
Blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot dislodged from its site of origin.
Includes both deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
Most often occurs in the “deep veins” in the legs, thighs or pelvis

Question 3

who is at high risk of DVT

Answer 3

older adults and surgical patients

Question 4

indications /criteria for neurovascular assessment.

Answer 4

Musculoskeletal trauma (e.g. fracture, crush injury)
Post orthopaedic surgery, spinal surgery, plastic surgery of the extremities (e.g. phalanges), cardiac catheterisation.
Application of plaster cast, compression bandage or firm bandage.
Application of traction
Circumferential burns
Signs of inflammation or infection of the limb.

Question 5

what are the 5 Ps in a neurovascular assessment

Answer 5

Pain,Pallor,Pulselessness, paraesthesia and paralysis