PARKINSONS Flashcards
What is Parkinson’s disease?
a chronic, progressive, insidious, neurodegenerative disease characterized by not enough dopamine; imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine
What are the cardinal features?
pill-rolling tremor, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability
non-motor clinical features
cognitive dysfunction, dementia, psychoses, hallucinations, depression, anxiety, olfactory dysfunction, sleep disturbances, autonomic dysfunction, pain/sensory disorders
characteristic appearance of a patient with Parkinson’s disease
blank facial expression, forward tilt to posture, slow monotonous slurred speech, tremor, short shuffling gait
What is micrographia?
progressive shrinking of handwriting
PD-OFF (small)
PD-ON (regular)
What is a diagnosis of PD based on? Tests or Hx?
history and clinical features
2 or 3 signs of classic triad present
ultimate confirmation = positive response to antiparkinsonian drugs
What is drug therapy aimed at correcting?
no cure; relieve symptoms
corrects neurotransmitter imbalance; either enhance released of dopamine or antagonize effect over cholinergic neurons
What is on-off phenomenon?
invariable consequence of long-term Levodopa administration
on = mobile
off = immobile
What is a surgical procedure that can be done for PD?
deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Who can you collaborate with for care of patient with PD?
speech pathologist, dietician, OT, PT
What can you assess/screen for?
depression/anxiety
insomnia/sleeplessness
What to teach you patient who freezes while walking
consciously think about stepping over lines or rice, rock from side to side, lift toes when stepping, remove rugs
What are ways you can provide psychosocial support?
assess caregiver burden as disease progresses, suggest local support groups
